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Nanomaterials and structures for the fourth innovation of polymer electrolyte fuel cell

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 January 2011

Chanho Pak
Affiliation:
Energy Laboratory, Emerging Research Technology Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon 440-600, Korea
Sangkyun Kang
Affiliation:
Energy Laboratory, Emerging Research Technology Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon 440-600, Korea
Yeong Suk Choi
Affiliation:
Energy Laboratory, Emerging Research Technology Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon 440-600, Korea
Hyuk Chang*
Affiliation:
Energy Laboratory, Emerging Research Technology Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon 440-600, Korea
*
a)Address all correspondence to this author. e-mail: [email protected] This paper has been selected as an Invited Feature Paper.
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Abstract

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are drawing attention as energy conversion devices for next generations because of their highly efficient, environmentally benign, and portable features. In the last five decades, three distinguishable innovations were achieved in terms of proton conductive membranes and electrodes: introduction of perfluorinated membranes into PEFCs, adoption of ionomers for electrodes, and increased toughness of membranes by reinforced membranes. The efficiency, cost, and durability achieved from the past three innovations are still not enough to replace competing technologies such as combustion engines. In this review, the authors would elucidate the three different methods based on nanotechnology to overcome the limits: nanoporous carbon-supported catalysts, nanocomposite membranes, and nanostructured membrane electrode assemblies, which will bring the fourth innovation to PEFCs. With the innovation, PEFCs will fulfill the goals of being clean-energy conversion devices in the major applications of stationary, portable, and vehicle markets.

Type
Invited Feature Paper
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2010

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