Non-Precious Metal Bi-Functional Catalysts

Statement of the Problem or Situation that is Being Addressed Fuel Cells are of interest for energy storage applications because of their high efficiency, but currently suffer from the high cost associated with precious metal cathode materials. Statement of How this Problem or Situation is Being Addressed In the propose project, pH Matter, LLC will synthesize and demonstrate the performance of next generation non-precious metal bi-functional cathodes. These materials have been shown to outperform precious metal catalysts in terms of oxygen reduction activity, oxygen evolution activity, and stability during voltage cycling. The unique properties of these materials allow them to be chemically resistant to degradation mechanisms suffered by traditional supported metal catalysts. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits At the commercial scale, these materials will be an order of magnitude less expensive than electrodes currently used, and will not be sensitive to market fluctuations. The technology will improve the efficiency of reversible fuel cells and extend their durability. Applications for the technology will include stationary power generation and energy storage. Key Words fuel cell, catalyst, cathode, oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution Summary for Members of Congress In this project, pH Matter, LLC will demonstrate a low-cost fuel cell technology. The component developed on this project will improve the efficiency and lower the cost of fuel cell systems. The technology will be used for stationary energy storage applications.