Noncovalent Modification of Carbon Nanofibers Using 2-Naphthalenethiol for Catalyst Supports in PEM Fuel Cells

Oh, Hyung-Suk; Kim, Han-Sung

doi:2010.1.2.92

J. Electrochem. Sci. Technol > Volume 1(2); 2010 > Article

Article

Journal of Electrochemical Science and Technology 2010;1(2):92-96.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5229/JECST.2010.1.2.092

Noncovalent Modification of Carbon Nanofibers Using 2-Naphthalenethiol for Catalyst Supports in PEM Fuel Cells

Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University;Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University;

Abstract

A new synthesis method for the preparation of Pt electrocatalysts on carbon nanofibers (CNFs) is reported. In this method, Pt electrocatalysts are loaded onto 2-naphthalenethiol (NT) functionalized CNFs. The noncovalent functionalization of CNFs by NT is the effective way for better distribution of Pt particles and higher electrocatalytic activity in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. It was found that the presence of NT acts as a poison to catalysts. Therefore, it is necessary to remove NT through the heat treatment at $400^{circ}C$.

Key Words: 2-naphthalenethiol, Graphitized carbon, Non-covalent functionalization, PEM fuel cell