Partially unzipped carbon nanotubes as a superior catalyst support for PEM fuel cells

摘要

Partially unzipped carbon nanotubes prepared by strong oxidation and thermal expansion of carbon nanotubes were explored as an advanced catalyst support for PEM fuel cells. The unique hybrid structure of ID nanotube and 2D double-side graphene resulted in an outstanding electrocatalytic performance. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene are the two youngest members of the prominent carbon family, and have been attracting wide attention recently due to their unique electrical, thermal, optical and mechanical properties. A one-atom-thick sheet of carbon is called graphene, and a carbon nanotube is a seamless cylinder wrapping of graphene sheets.5 Thus, CNT and graphene have many similar physical and chemical properties.6 It is their similarities that have promoted the rapid development of graphene through applying the research strategies of CNTs to graphene.