Fuel cell electrocatalysts based on two-dimensional nanosheets

Abstract

While polymer electrolyte fuel cells using hydrogen or reformed hydrogen have now been implemented into practical applications, large scale employment is necessary to make an impact towards the carbon neutral society. The decrease in Pt usage is crucial to meet the strong demand for cost competitive and environmentally benign power sources, and thus game-changing technologies must be developed to realize highly active and durable electrocatalysts. In this article, state-of-the-art technologies relating to Pt-based electrocatalysts with two-dimensional nanosheet structures will be outlined. The synthesis of Pt-based nanosheet catalysts with core-shell structure that exhibits oxygen reduction reaction activity and stability higher than standard carbon supported Pt will be described. Synthesis of poly- and single-crystalline Pt nanosheets via graphene oxide templating will be presented. An advanced catalyst layer fabrication technique via galvanostatic replacement directly in the catalyst layer will be given. In addition, commercial scale processes of electrocatalysts with nanosheet and core-shell structures are reported.