A novel dual catalyst layer structured gas diffusion electrode for enhanced performance of high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell

• Novel dual CL structured GDE was prepared for high temperature PEMFC.
• Good electrode kinetics can be maintained by a PVDF outer CL.
• Reduced mass transport limitations can be realized by a proper PTFE inner CL.
• Superior performance was delivered by combining both merits of two binders.

Gas diffusion electrode (GDE) based on a novel dual catalyst layer (CL) structure is designed to enhance the performance of poly(2,5-benzimidazole) (ABPBI)-based high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Differing from conventional GDE with simplex binder CL, the dual CL GDE is prepared using two different binders, in which a polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) CL works as the outer layer to obtain good electrode kinetics by intimately contacting with the electrolyte membrane, while a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) CL works as the inner layer to reduce mass transport limitations. Single cell test and electrochemical analysis on both the dual CL GDE and conventional GDEs are performed to evaluate the effect of the novel CL structure on the fuel cell performance. The results show that significant reductions on both kinetics and mass transfer losses account for the enhanced performance of the novel dual CL structured GDE.

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