Inexpensive, High Performance Fuel Cell Electrodes and Batteries Made from Cellular Coal

60443 High-performance batteries and fuel cells can lessen the nation¿s dependence on combustion engines, reduce vehicular emission, and positively impact the electronics market. However, the implementation of many of these technologies is hindered by the material performance of components. For example, a common requirement of fuel cells and high-performance batteries is efficient, consistent performance from the electrode over its life. This project will demonstrate the viability of transforming inexpensive coal derivatives into a tailorable porous electrode. Such a component would reduce cost and weight and increase the performance and service life of fuel cells and batteries. In Phase I, it was found that certain coal-based carbon foams had attractive electrochemical properties. In Phase II, practical fuel cell and battery systems will be selected and coal-based foams will be designed to meet their requirements. The design includes tailoring the foam cell size, connectivity, surface area, and surface chemistry. Fuel cell and battery manufacturers will be recruited to produce and test prototypes fabricated from coal-based porous electrodes, analyze performance benefits, and guide further refinement of the electrode specifications. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Coal-based carbon foam electrodes should improve the performance and reduce the cost of fuel cells and of carbon-zinc batteries, zinc-air batteries and lithium-ion batteries.