Nanocatalysts in Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Applications

Current needs for sustainable energy have popularized the development and use of fuel cell technology. Fuel cells provide a clean alternative to other types of energy. Since this is a relatively new technology, many aspects of this field still need improvement. Catalysts are vital fuel cell components, and in recent years research efforts have focused on the development new types of catalysts. This review describes the deficiencies of several types of catalysts used in hydrogen and direct‐methanol fuel‐cell applications and the recent development of new catalysts for these devices based on nanoscale materials. Several important types of nanocatalysts (Pt‐Ru nanocomposites, gold nanocatalysts, and carbon nanotubes supported Pt‐Fe) will be covered. In addition, the merits and shortcomings of these nanocatalysts will be briefly discussed.

Keywords:

• catalyst
• nanoparticle
• fuel cell

This work was supported by the National Science Foundation Grant CHE‐0616878, Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh Starter Grant, and North Dakota EPRSCoR Seed Grant.