Multicomponent, multiphase interactions in fuel-cell inks

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date Published

10/2021

Authors

DOI

Abstract

Fuel-cell catalyst layers (CLs) are porous electrodes that are fabricated from CL inks: colloidal dispersions of catalyst particles and ion-conducting polymer (ionomer), dispersed in solvent(s). The complex interactions between the ink components ultimately dictate CL microstructure and electrochemical performance. To control the CL formation process and optimize fuel-cell performance, knowledge of these ink interactions is vital. In this review, we analyze data from ink-focused papers to elucidate how ink parameters (solvent type, ionomer-to-carbon ratio, etc.) impact ink interactions and CL performance. We then discuss these results in the context of the current understanding of two critical ink interactions: ionomer/solvent and ionomer/catalyst particle interactions.

Journal

Current Opinion in Electrochemistry

Volume

29

Year of Publication

2021

ISSN

24519103

Organization

Research Areas