Callistemon viminalis Leaf Extract Mediated Biosynthesis of Ag, rGO-Ag-ZnO Nanomaterials for Catalytic PEM Fuel Cell Application

Abstract

Cost-effective manufacture of hydrogen proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEM-fuel cells) is of much interest to concerned researchers. Platinum metal has already shown good performance in the PEM fuel cell, yet its high cost means that it is not affordable to all nations. This paper identifies ways to reduce the cost by replacing platinum-based PEM fuel cells with synthesised eco-friendly silver (Ag) nanoparticles and reducing graphene oxide coated silver composited zinc oxide (rGO/Ag-ZnO) nanomaterials. Ag nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide coated silver composited zinc oxide nanomaterials were synthesised using Callistemon viminalis leaf extract. PEM fuel cell modification was achieved using newly biosynthesised nanomaterials, while power density was compared with commercial platinum metal-based PEM fuel cells. The present study shows that modified PEM fuel cells can replace commercial platinum-based PEM fuel cells for cost-effective hydrogen proton exchange membrane fuel cells.