Work

Pore Structural Characterization of Fuel Cell Layers Using Integrated Mercury Porosimetry and Computerized X-ray Tomography

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: The pore structure of the cathode catalyst layer of proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells is a major factor influencing cell performance. The nanostructure of the catalyst layer has been probed using a novel combination of mercury porosimetry with computerized X-ray tomography (CXT), even though the nanopores were below the nominal CXT resolution. The method allows probing of the macroscopic spatial variability in the accessibility of the nanostructure. In particular, mercury entrapment within the catalyst layer showed a pronounced regular spatial patterning corresponding to the already higher X-ray absorbing regions of the fresh catalyst layer. The initial, greater X-ray absorption was due to a higher local concentration of carbon-supported platinum catalyst. This was due to segregation of ionomer away from these areas caused by the particular screen printing catalyst layer deposition method used, which both enhanced the accessibility of the origin regions and, concomitantly, reduced the accessibility of the destination regions.

Source: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research

DOI: 10.1021/acs.iecr.6b01617

Authors: Shoaib Malik, Linda Smith, Jonathan Sharman, Elizabeth M. Holt, Sean P. Rigby

Institution: University of Nottingham

Language: English

Topic: Fuel Cells and Related Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: University of Nottingham, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council

Award: University of Nottingham - Equipment Account