Optimization of an anode fabrication method for the alkaline Direct Formate Fuel Cell

The performance of an alkaline Direct Formate Fuel Cell (DFFC) employing a polymer anion exchange membrane has been greatly improved by optimization of the method and amount of catalyst loading at the anode. An optimum anode for this DFFC was obtained by a combination of direct-membrane spray painting and gas diffusion layer brush painting. When this fuel cell was operated at 60 °C with 1 M HCOOK, 2 M KOH, and oxygen, its current density at 0.6 V was 408 mA cm−2, and its maximum power density was 267 mW cm−2. When KOH was removed from the fuel stream, a power density of 157 mW cm−2 was achieved. Both of these power densities are very competitive with recent reports of alkaline direct liquid fuel cells (DLFC). We also demonstrate the DFFC when air was used at the cathode and no KOH was added to the fuel; the maximum power density was 105 mW cm−2 in this case.

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► We show significantly improved performance in a Direct Formate Fuel Cell.
► This fuel cell produces power density greater than other alkaline liquid fuel cells.
► This fuel cell still produces competitive power without KOH and using air as oxidant.
► The alkaline environment is advantageous for catalysts and reaction rates.