NICOP - Novel carbon-supported PtCo core-shell catalysts for high performance PEM fuel cells
Abstract
Novel carbon-supported PtCo core-shell catalysts for high performance PEM fuel cells:As a leading fuel cell technology, PEM fuel cell can find many applications for US Navy to power vehicles, distributed CHP (combined-heat-and-power) systems, and portable devices,offering relatively high fuel conversion efficiency without harmful emissions. However, cost and durability are the two major hurdles that hinder its commercialization.The objective of this project is to develop a core-shell PtCo catalyst supported on novel nonporous carbon materials with high activity, long durability and low cost, suitable for both PEMFC and HT-PEMFC. PtCo catalyst possesses core-shell structure with Pt-skin on the ordered Co-enriched alloy core and 2-4 nm in particle size. Three types of novel non-porous carbon materials are used as the support. Nano-sized PtCo alloy catalysts will be prepared using traditional chemical method. b. The US Navy plans to derive half its energy supply from renewables by 2020, for both strategic and environmental imperatives. Technology to collect and store locally-available but intermittent solar, wind, wave or tidal energy can offer naval assets a strategically and tactically important additional capability, in place of exclusive reliance on petroleum fuels. The US Pentagon estimates the cost of refueling forward bases at up to $107 a litre. Today~s defense forces are also often involved in emergency relief and community development missions, where setting up a basic local electricity supply is a first priority. Energy storage will remains a critical component missing from the current technology portfolio and new and improved technologies will be essential to the future of renewable energy. Fuel cells will be a critical component of that energy future and this project aims to improve the overall performance of fuel cells. c. Code 33 d. The selected catalysts will be evaluated at PEMFC conditions.The outcome of the work is expected to contribute positively to the economic viability of applying PEM fuel cells in portable and communication devices.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 23, 2016
- Source ID
- N629091612235
Entities
People
- Siew Hwa Chan
Organizations
- Nanyang Technological University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy