Hydrogen Storage Alloy and Carbon Nanotubes Mixed Catalyst in a Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell

Abstract

Abstract: In this study, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were mixed with AB5-type hydrogen storage alloy (HSA), as catalyst for an anode in a direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC). As comparision, a series of traditional carbon materials, such as acetylene black, Vulcan XC-72R, and super activated carbon (SAC) were also employed. Electrochemical measurements showed that the electrocatalytic activity of HSA was improved greatly by CNTs. The current density of the DBFC employing the HSA/CNTs catalytic anode could reach 1550 mA·cm^-2 (at −0.6 V vs the Hg/HgO electrode) and the maximum power density of 65 mW·cm^-2 for this cell could be achieved at room temperature. Furthermore, the life time test lasting for 60 h showed that the cell displayed a good stability.

Key words: Direct borohydride fuel cell, Carbon nanotubes, Hydrogen storage alloy, Electrocatalytic activity

Sai Li, Xiaodong Yang, Haiyan Zhu, Yan Liu, Yongning Liu. Hydrogen Storage Alloy and Carbon Nanotubes Mixed Catalyst in a Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell[J]. J Mater Sci Technol, 2011, 27(12): 1089-1093.

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