Comprehensive Understanding of Accelerated Stress Test Protocols for Fe-N-C Catalysts in Acidic Aqueous Media

Abstract

Accelerated cycling tests on a rotating disk electrode (RDE) are commonly used to rapidly assess the stability of Fe-N-C catalysts. While RDE-based accelerated stress test (AST) protocols offer several advantages, the reliability of RDE-measured catalyst stability is often limited by the significant disparity in durability between RDE and fuel cell tests. To bridge this gap, it is essential to understand how various test conditions influence the results during stability testing. In this study, we identified the key factors affecting catalyst stability, including rotational speed and electrolyte temperature, through a systematic examination of AST parameters. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the effects of anions on catalyst stability. By optimizing these parameters, we propose a more rigorous AST testing protocol. This work offers valuable insights for rapid and accurate performance assessments of M-N-C catalysts.