Study of Hydrogen-Oxygen Fuel Cell Electrodes

摘要

A number of different types of fuel cell systems, including catalysts, electrodes and electrolytes, have been investigated. Of the metals studied, it was found that a platinum-palladium, electrically co-deposited catalyst gave the best performance at both the hydrogen and oxygen electrodes. Supporting data from single electrode studies and galvanostatic measurements are given. Experimental methods of depositing the catalyst were also studied. Ultrasonic impregnation of the electrode with the electroplating solution before electrodeposition produced, by far, the best electrochemical performance. Both porous carbon and sintered nickel were used as catalyst supports. Free electrolytes, various types of gelled electrolytes, and electrolytes held in an asbestos matrix were investigated. Wetting or contact difficulties dictated the use of aqueous potassium hydroxide-asbestos electrolyte in the final cells which were constructed. (Author)