Non-PGM Cathode Electrocatalysts for PEM Fuel Cells

Abstract

The replacement of unsustainable noble-metal catalysts with platinum group metal (PGM)-free catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is essential for material wise and market value viable PEMFCs. Despite the tremendous efforts involved in their development, many drawbacks persist that include poor design of the architecture and chemical composition, control over the synthesis and poor stability, which seriously degrades their performance. These challenges are universally recognized and lead to a strong focus on designing alternative catalysts. Among the investigated candidates, Me–N-C catalysts are the most promising. In this work, the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of several Fe–N–C materials are presented. The synthetic approach involves templating using silicon-based materials. Structural, physicochemical, and electrochemical characterization in terms of ORR activity is also performed.