MnO2 Nanowire Thin Mesh With Enhanced Mass Transfer as Hydroxide Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Cathode

Abstract

Hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cells (HEMFCs) are promising due to the potential use of nonprecious metal catalysts. However, the performance of HEMFCs based on nonprecious catalysts is still unsatisfactory, and one reason for this is hindered mass transfer in the catalyst layer. In this study, we employ a hydrothermal method to grow in situ a MnO₂ nanowire thin mesh (NTM) catalytic layer on the gas diffusion electrode. The HEMFC prepared with MnO₂ NTM cathode achieves a peak power density of 425 mW cm⁻², surpassing the performance of the HEMFC prepared using the traditional powder catalyst spraying method by four times. High-frequency resistance and limiting current tests indicate that the MnO₂ NTM reduces ohmic resistance and improves mass transfer, thereby enhancing the HEMFC performance. Furthermore, the peak power density of the HEMFC is increased to 626 mW cm⁻² by depositing additional active Co₃O₄ nanoparticles on the MnO₂ NTM. These findings demonstrate that an interconnected and porous catalyst layer structure is beneficial for improving mass transfer properties, which in turn enhances HEMFC performance.