The problem of Ru dissolution from Pt–Ru catalysts during fuel cell operation: analysis and solutions

• Published in: Journal of solid state electrochemistry Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 455 - 472
• Main Author: Antolini, Ermete
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin/Heidelberg Springer-Verlag 01-03-2011
• Subjects: Analytical Chemistry; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Condensed Matter Physics; Electrochemistry; Energy Storage; Physical Chemistry; Review; Durability; Ruthenium dissolution; Direct methanol fuel cells; PEM fuel cells; Pt–Ru catalysts
• ISSN: 1432-8488; 1433-0768
• DOI: 10.1007/s10008-010-1124-7

Platinum–ruthenium catalysts are widely used as anode materials in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEMFCs) operating with reformate gas and in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Ruthenium dissolution from the Pt–Ru anode catalyst at potentials higher than 0.5 V vs. DHE, followed by migration and deposition to the Pt cathode can give rise to a decrease of the activity of both anode and cathode catalysts and to a worsening of cell performance. A major challenge for a suitable application of Pt–Ru catalysts in PEMFC and DMFC is to improve their stability against Ru dissolution. The purpose of this paper is to provide a better knowledge of the problem of Ru dissolution from Pt–Ru catalysts and its effect on fuel cell performance. The different ways to resolve this problem are discussed.