The aim of the project is to increase the performance and durability of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). A novel self-supporting, structured, electrospun carbon nanofibre fleece-based catalyst layer (KS) is used for this purpose.
Such free-standing catalyst layer materials are intended to increase the electrical and thermal conductivity of the PEMFC reactive zone (KS). In addition, platinum (Pt) utilisation is maximised, ionomer coating is minimised and reactant diffusion and electrode durability are significantly improved.
The combination of advanced manufacturing methods for the catalyst support structures (electrospinning, oxidation, carbonisation) in combination with the bi-component (BiKo) spinning of the nanofibres ensures that the Pt catalysts are located in the ‘jacket’ of the nanofibres. In addition, subsequent deposition methods for Pt-NP – using Pt reduction or application of Pt colloid to carbon nanofibre fleece – are to be carried out as an alternative.
The production of carbon nanofibres (CNF) or 3D CNF structures and their platinum coating will be optimised in terms of maximum electrochemical performance and durability of the KS as well as process scalability – with a view to large-scale production.