Researchers develop new technology that could speed up commercialization of fuel cell vehicles

A team of engineers from the University of Delaware has achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a novel technology that has the potential to revolutionize fuel cells for vehicles. Their research, outlined in a paper published in Nature Communications on September 4th, could pave the way for cheaper and more durable fuel cells, thereby accelerating the commercialization of fuel cell vehicles.

Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that produce harmful emissions, fuel cells operate through electrochemical reactions, leaving no pollution behind, making them a greener alternative. These reactions are facilitated by materials known as catalysts, with platinum being the most commonly used catalyst in vehicle fuel cells. However, the high cost of platinum, which can reach approximately $30,000 per kilogram, poses a significant challenge to widespread adoption.

To address this issue, the team at the University of Delaware focused on developing a new catalyst made from tungsten carbide, a considerably more affordable material, priced at around $150 per kilogram. The key innovation lay in creating tungsten carbide nanoparticles using a groundbreaking method that significantly improved scalability compared to previous approaches.

Typically, tungsten carbide is produced at extremely high temperatures (about 1,500 Celsius), resulting in large particles with limited surface area for chemical reactions to occur. The team’s novel method allowed for the creation of nanoscale tungsten carbide particles with a high surface area, making them commercially relevant for catalytic applications.

Incorporating these nanoparticles into the fuel cell’s membrane proved to be a game-changer. The membrane, present in automotive fuel cells known as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), is crucial for splitting hydrogen into protons and generating the electrical current. Over time, the polymeric membrane degrades, especially under repeated wet/dry cycles, which are common during fuel cell operation.

The introduction of tungsten carbide into the membrane mitigates this issue by optimizing water management within the fuel cell. It also acts as a shield against harmful free radicals, extending the membrane’s lifespan and durability compared to traditional counterparts.

Furthermore, the low-cost catalyst developed by the team enhances fuel cell performance and power density, allowing for the reduction of the fuel cell stack’s physical size while maintaining the same power output. This not only makes the technology lighter but also more cost-effective.

To validate their findings, the engineers used innovative techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy and focused ion beam imaging, to assess the durability of fuel cells containing tungsten carbide. The team’s successful results have led to a patent application, and they are optimistic about commercializing their technology.

The collaborative effort of different departments at the University of Delaware demonstrates the potential of interdisciplinary research in driving technological advancements. With this groundbreaking development, the future of fuel cell vehicles appears brighter than ever, with the promise of cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient transportation on the horizon.