Catalysis, Architecture and the Electrochemical Performance of Microfibrous Cathodes for Hydrogen Peroxide Based Fuel Cells

Abstract

A novel cathode morphology has been developed for use in magnesium-hydrogen peroxide semi-fuel cells. A direct electrostatic flocking method is used to prepare the carbon microfiber arrays that are subsequently catalyzed with a Pd/Ir alloy by electrochemical deposition. The microfibers protrude from a current collector like the bristles of a brush. Flocking under different voltage field strengths and in various atmospheres is reported upon. A pulse potential deposition technique is compared to the baseline cyclic potential method. XRD data represented to conclude that a homogenous alloy of Pd and Ir is obtained by both techniques. Polarization and constant current results sow these electrodes significantly improve the rate capability of the Mg-hydrogen peroxide cell. Individual electrode potential measurements show that most of the polarization occurs on the cathode. Combinations of Co, W, and Mo with Pd and Ir have been studied to improve catalytic activity. Bipolar electrode fabrication has been accomplished. Long term performance data of single cells and two cell stacks are presented Electrode performance modeling was undertaken.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 30, 2004
Accession Number
ADA434290

Entities

People

  • Charles J. Patrissi
  • Christopher N. Lafratta
  • Craig M. Deschenes
  • Delmas W. Atwater
  • Louis G. Carreiro
  • Maria G. Medeiros
  • Michelle M. Dunnell
  • Russell R. Bessette
  • Steven P. Tucker
  • Yong K. Kim

Organizations

  • University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Carbon Fibers
  • Catalysis
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Electrodeposition
  • Electrodes
  • Electron Microscopy
  • Fabrication
  • Fuel Cells
  • Graphitic Materials
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Science
  • Measurement
  • Metals
  • Rocket Oxidizers
  • Unmanned Underwater Vehicles

Readers

  • Electrochemical Engineering/ Fuel Cell Technologies
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology