Enhanced performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells by Pt/carbon/antimony-doped tin dioxide triple-junction catalyst

Abstract

Abstract A composite material comprising carbon black and Sb-doped SnO2 (ATO) is employed as a support for a Pt catalyst in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) to improve the performance of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell under low-humidity conditions. The effects of Sb-doping on the crystal, structural, and electrochemical characteristics of ATO particles are being examined. In a single cell test, the ratio of Sb in ATO is systematically optimized to improve performance. The distribution of Pt nanoparticles is uniform on carbon black and ATO carrier, forming notable triple-junction points at the interface of carbon black and ATO carrier. This structure thus induces a strong interaction between Pt and ATO, promoting the content of metallic Pt. Compared with a Pt/C catalyst, the best-performing Pt/C–ATO catalyst exhibits superior electrochemical activity, stability, and CO tolerance. The power density of MEA with the Pt/C–ATO catalyst is 15% higher than that of the MEA with the Pt/C catalyst