Doped tin dioxide aerogel as alternative catalyst support for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Abstract : Catalyst supports for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells (PEFC) are currently made up of carbon blacks. This material is however not thermodynamically stable in fuel cell operating conditions and loss of performance is observed with time, especially at the cathode side. To improve PEFC durability and make this technology a credible alternative to conventional power sources, carbon free cathodes were prepared. With a remarkable morphology, aerogels have already proven their ability to efficiently support catalysts for PEMFC application. In this study doped tin dioxide aerogels are proposed as alternative supports presumably stable in PEMFC operating conditions.