Abstract:
This research studies the effect of gas diffusion layers (GDL) on Pt catalysts prepared by electrodeposition. GDL from different sources have different structures and properties so that they are expected to affect electrodeposition process and catalyst properties. It was found that type and thickness of the GDL, PTFE content and micro-porous layer (MPL) affected the morphology and distribution of Pt catalysts deposited on the surface of the GDL which eventually affected the performance of fuel cells. The GDL made from carbon paper had a smoother surface than that made from carbon cloth which consists of bundles of carbon fibers fabricated from a woven process. As the result, the catalysts deposited on carbon paper had a more uniform distribution. The GDL with a thin layer possess wide gaps between carbon fiber or the large pore size. Then, some Pt was deposited in the inner layer of the GDL leading to a less accessibility of the Pt catalyst sites to the oxygen reduction reaction. PTFE content on the GDL was found to be important since it should be balanced between the effect on the water management during the fuel cell operation and the wettability during Pt electrodeposition. Some manufacturers prepared the MPL on the GDL so that it was unnecessary to add hydrophobic layer, and only hydrophilic layer should be prepared in order to obtain a Pt deposit with uniform distribution and high active surface area catalysts.