Advancements in nanocarbon-based catalysts for enhanced fuel cell performance: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Fuel cells hold great promise as a clean energy technology, yet challenges such as material compatibility, manufacturing costs, and durability issues, particularly with noble metal-based electrocatalysts like platinum (Pt), hinder their widespread adoption. This review explores strategies to enhance fuel cell performance while minimizing costs, focusing on developing efficient and cost-effective catalysts supported by nanocarbon materials, such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon films, and their composites. The investigation delves into how these catalysts supports improve activity and stability, leading to superior fuel cell performance characterized by higher current density and enhanced durability compared to conventional Pt/C catalysts, with a specific focus on proton-exchange membrane fuel cells. Key topics covered include the role of nanocarbon in fuel cells, various nanocarbon-based catalyst supports, Pt-containing alloys, non-Pt catalysts, and nanocarbon composites for electrolyte membranes and corrosion protection. Notable findings include the importance of heteroatom doping in enhancing reactivity, the effectiveness of organic-inorganic composite proton exchange membranes in improving proton conductivity, and the potential of amorphous carbon film coatings and conductive polymer-nanocarbon composites in enhancing corrosion resistance. These advancements underscore the potential of nanocarbon-based catalysts and coatings in ensuring the reliability and longevity of fuel cell components, thus contributing to the widespread commercialization of fuel cell technology.