Modified Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Fuel Cells

Qazzazie, Dureid; Beckert, M.; Mülhaupt, Rolf; Yurchenko, Olena; Urban, G.

doi:10.17265/1934-8975/2015.10.007

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

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“…While novelties and outstanding properties are regularly praised in numerous studies, the performance examination under real operating fuel cell conditions has so far been rather neglected, since measurements in liquid electrolyte and three-electrode configuration are not sufficient to evaluate the potential of novel electrode concepts. In our previous study, we have already presented that prepared N-graphene demonstrated better catalytic activity towards ORR than nondoped graphene at alkaline conditions [16]. Besides, we have especially demonstrated the selectivity of prepared N-graphene for ORR in presence of glucose and D-gluconic acid in pH-neutral media [17].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 77%

Control over fuel cell performance through modulation of pore accessibility: investigation and modeling of carbon nanotubes effects on oxygen reduction at N-graphene-based nanocomposite

et al. 2016

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The lack of performance of graphene-based electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction (ORR) is a major concern for fuel cells which can be mastered using nanocomposites. This work is highlighted by the optimization of nitrogen(N)-doped graphene/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanocomposite's ORR performance examined by galvanostatic measurements in realistically approached glucose half-cells. Obtained results mark an essential step for the development of nanocarbon-based cathodes, as we specifically evaluate the electrode performance under real fuel cell conditions. The 2D simulations exclusively represent an important approach for understanding the catalytic efficiency of the nanocomposite with unique structure. The kinetics features extracted from simulations are consistent with the experimentally determined kinetics. The morphology analysis reveals a 3D porous structure. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of CNTs implements mesoscale channels for improved mass transport and leads to efficient 4-electron transfer and enhanced overall catalytic activity in pH-neutral media. The nanocomposite shows increased specific surface area of 142 m g, positively shifted ORR onset potential of 67 mV and higher open circuit potential of 268 mV versus Ag/AgCl compared to N-graphene (11 m g, -17, 220 mV). The findings are supported by 2D simulations giving qualitative evidence to the significant role of CNTs for achieving better accessibility of pores, i.e. enabling improved transfer of oxygen and OH, and providing more reaction sites in the nanocomposite. The nanocomposite demonstrates better ORR performance than constituent components regarding potential application in miniaturized single-compartment glucose-based fuel cells.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 77%