Integrating catalyst, ionomer, and gas diffusion layer into a nanoporous architecture

Brad J. Berron, G. Kane Jennings, Evan Graybill

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

A strategy to molecularly optimize the cathode side of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell is described. This new cathode consists of a porous alumina membrane with metal-lined pores that function as gas diffusion conduits while supporting a catalyst layer and ionomer. The ionomer chains are grown from the surface of the pore walls and are designed to encapsulate the catalyst particles to provide a well-defined three-phase boundary for gas, proton, and electron transfer. Two new classes of ionomer were evaluated, including non-fluorinated and partially fluorinated polymers prepared by the surface-initiated ring-opening metathesis polymerization of a functionalized norbornene and subsequent sulfonation with acetyl sulfate. These ionomers were grown rapidly and conformally over any surface geometry with nanometer-level control over thickness. The effectiveness of a high-utilization catalyst attachment method was demonstrated through electrochemical monitoring of the oxygen reduction reaction. This is an abstract of a paper presented at the 2007 AIChE Annual Meeting (Salt Lake City, UT 11/4-9/2007).

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2007 AIChE Annual Meeting
StatePublished - 2007
Event2007 AIChE Annual Meeting - Salt Lake City, UT, United States
Duration: Nov 4 2007Nov 9 2007

Publication series

Name2007 AIChE Annual Meeting

Conference

Conference2007 AIChE Annual Meeting
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySalt Lake City, UT
Period11/4/0711/9/07

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Chemical Engineering (all)
  • Bioengineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

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