Properties of Catalyst Layers Prepared by Electrospray Deposition

• Main Authors: Chaparro, Antonio M., Folgado, M. Antonia, Gallardo, Blanca, Martín, Antonio J., Daza, Loreto
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1938-5862; 1938-6737
• DOI: 10.1149/1.3210677

Catalyst layers composed of Pt/C catalyst with ionomer (NafionR), for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) electrodes, have been prepared by electrospray deposition. Relevant properties for electrochemical fuel cell reactions are studied, related with total surface area (BET), platinum electroactive area, and single cell testing. Studies of surface area show lower values on electrospray deposited layers, compared with layers prepared by other methods (airbrush). It appears that a higher proportion of mesopores is filled with the ionomer, which reflects closer interaction between the ionomer and the catalyst aggregates. On the other hand, the electrochemical active area of Pt/C electrosprayed films shows values above those of films deposited by other common techniques or commercial electrodes. Electrode testing as cathodes in single cells shows better performance of electrosprayed layers due to lower electrode resistance, as a consequence of the improved distribution and interaction of the ionomer film among Pt/C catalyst aggregates.