Electrocatalysts for low temperature fuel cells

Low temperature fuel cells technologies are currently shifting very fast from fundamental research to real growth. The development of electrocatalysts plays a vital role in the electrocatalytic reactions involved in these devices, because the catalyst determines the overall reaction efficiency, durability and cost. This article review progress in the research and development of electrocatalysts for low temperature fuel cells technologies, with especial attention in the contribution of our research teams over the last 15 years or so. The intensive research efforts in reducing or replacing Pt-based electrodes in fuel cells have been focus in the use of carbon nanomaterials as electrocatalytic supports, including carbon nanostructures tailored by surface modification or building in particular dopants/defects. Recent research effort has also led to the use of electronic conductivity noncarbon support materials. In addition, carbon-composite materials are proving to be a robust, inexpensive and active electrocatalysts, where the synergetic effect between the carbon nanomaterials and the ceramic or polymer nanostructures can lead to a superior electrocatalytic performance and durability for low temperature fuel cells. Perspectives on these catalysts and possible pathways to address current remaining challenges are also discussed.
Authors thank the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (MINECO) and FEDER through the Project ENE2014-52158-C2-1-R for financial support.