A new catalyst sporting a graphene-protective layer and porous carbon support could enable better fuel cells

Researchers at UCLA and University of California have designed a graphene-nanopocket-protected, pore-confined and electrochemically accessible Pt nanocatalyst supported on Ketjenblack carbon that could dramatically extend the lifespan of fuel cells, making them a more viable clean energy source that can help bring sustainable, long-haul trucking closer to reality.

Schematic illustration of the graphene-protected nanocatalyst structure with a scanning transmission microscope showing the platinum nanoparticle embedded in a pocket of graphene. Image credit: UCLA

Led by Yu Huang, a professor of materials science and engineering at the UCLA, the research team’s new catalyst design is capable of pushing the projected fuel cell catalyst lifespans to 200,000 hours, which is nearly seven times the U.S. Department of Energy’s target for 2050. The research could mark a significant step toward the widespread adoption of fuel cell technology in heavy-duty vehicles, such as long-haul tractor trailers.

Schematic illustration of the graphene-protected nanocatalyst structure with a scanning transmission microscope showing the platinum nanoparticle embedded in a pocket of graphene. Image credit: UCLALed by Yu Huang, a professor of materials science and engineering at the UCLA, the research team’s new catalyst design is capable of pushing the projected fuel cell catalyst lifespans to 200,000 hours, which is nearly seven times the U.S. Department of Energy’s target for 2050. The research could mark a significant step toward the widespread adoption of fuel cell technology in heavy-duty vehicles, such as long-haul tractor trailers.

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