Bio-inspired Construction of Advanced Fuel Cell Cathode with Pt Anchored in Ordered Hybrid Polymer Matrix

• DOI: 10.1038/srep16100
• Publication Date: 2015-11-05T09:12:04Z
• Authors: Zhangxun Xia; Suli Wang; Luhua Jiang; Hai Sun; Shuang Liu; Xudong Fu; Bingsen Zhang; Dang Sheng Su; Jianqiang Wang; Gongquan Sun
• Keywords: Nafion; Ionomer; Polypyrrole; Platinum nanoparticles

The significant use of platinum for catalyzing the cathodic oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) has hampered widespread polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). construction well-defined electrode architecture in nanoscale with enhanced utilization and catalytic performance Pt might be a promising approach to address such barrier. Inspired by highly efficient processes enzymes active centers embedded charge transport pathways, here we demonstrate first time design that allocates nanoparticles (Pt NPs) at boundaries dual-functions conducting both electrons aid polypyrrole protons via Nafion(®) ionomer within hierarchical nanoarrays. By mimicking functionally, an impressive ORR activity stability is achieved. Using this brand new as cathode anode PEMFC, high mass specific power density 5.23 W mg(-1)Pt achieved, remarkable durability. These improvements are ascribed not only electron decoration anchoring effects from decorated PPy substrate supported NPs, but also fast facilitated proton pathways architecture.