Ultra-low Platinum Loading Electrode with New Concept for PEFC

Abstract

The ultra-low platinum loading electrode (ULPLE) with new concept that fine Pt particles are loaded mainly at electrochemically active site located on the surface of carbon in contact with cluster of polymer electrolyte, has been experimentally verified to be able to minimize the Pt loading level down to 0.012 mg cm^-2 with its high utilization of approx. 2.5 times higher than that of Pt supported carbon. This novel electrode was realized by special process based on ion-exchange reaction between Pt complex cation and proton of the counter ion of polymer electrolyte on carbon powders followed by reduction of its cation under hydrogen atmosphere at lower temperature of 180℃. The ULPLE will be expected to show little deterioration phenomenon losing the active surface area of Pt particles during its operation time.