Platinum in nanotube form boosts reactions in fuel cells

Researchers from INAC and Liten achieved a 30% increase in the current produced by an equivalent surface of platinum when they replaced a fuel-cell’s usual platinum-coated carbon electrode with a carpet made by bonding platinum nanotubes to the proton-exchange membrane. The structure, made using CVD, is covered with a fine layer of proton-conducting polymer.
The nanotubes are aligned, creating direct pathways to carry oxygen, water, protons, and electrons. Plus, the elimination of carbon from the electrodes should lengthen their lifespan—an added benefit.
The researchers are still working on improvements to the nanotubes’ geometry and density; their goal is to introduce other metals to reduce the total amount of platinum required.

Contacts: nicolas.pauc@cea.fr and arnaud.morin@cea.fr

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