Nano-inks for fuel cells application

Abstract

The catalyst layers of fuel cells consist of porous electrodes in which the appropriate inks are deposited. These inks are colloidal dispersions in which different nanoparticle structures are dispersed into solvents. They are also known as nano-ink systems. Structures present in nano-inks involve catalyst nanoparticles immobilized on a substrate (carbon structures or composites of polymer–carbon) and an ion-conducting polymer (ionomer) that also works as a binder. Nano-inks are affected by complex interactions among the ink components; thus, the electrochemical performance is directly related to the ink composition and the method of deposition. In this chapter, the importance of common ink components is discussed and relevant examples are presented and analyzed in terms of their advantages for electrochemical performance, long-term durability, and stability. Different approaches to developing nano-inks are discussed in the context of current understanding, focusing on the commercialization of this powerful energy-converting technology.