Morphology of Thin-Film Nafion on Carbon as an Analogue of Fuel Cell Catalyst Layers.

ABSTRACT: Species transport in thin-film Nafion heavily influences proton-exchange membrane (PEMFC) performance, particularly in low-platinum-loaded cells. Literature suggests that phase-segregated nanostructures in hydrated Nafion thin films can reduce species mobility and increase transport losses in cathode catalyst layers. However, these structures have primarily been observed at silicon-Nafion interfaces rather than at more relevant material (e.g., Pt and carbon black) interfaces. In this work, we use neutron reflectometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate carbon-supported Nafion thin films. Measurements were taken in humidified environments for Nafion thin films (≈30-80 nm) on four different carbon substrates. Results show a variety of interfacial morphologies in carbon-suppo

SUBMITTER: Randall CR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10811627 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature