Non-precious metal electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction via ionothermal synthesis

Abstract

The increasing global energy demand necessitates the development of sustainable energy technologies. Anion-exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) present a promising alternative to proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) due to their ability to utilize platinum group metal (PGM)-free catalysts, which significantly reduce costs and resource dependency. This thesis focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of transition metal and nitrogen-doped carbon catalysts for AEMFCs. Utilizing cyclodextrine and magnesium nitrate, various PGM-free catalysts were developed, and the synthesis conditions were optimized. The catalysts were investigated with both physical and electrochemical characterization techniques. The catalysts' performance was assessed through rotating disk electrode (RDE) measurements and single-cell AEMFC tests. The optimized FeNC-CD3 catalyst exhibited a peak power density of 596 mW cm⁻², showcasing its potential as a viable alternative to conventional Pt-based catalysts. This work highlights the critical role of hierarchical porosity in enhancing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and paves the way for the development of cost-effective and efficient AEMFC technologies.