Engineering Catalyst Layers for Next?Generation Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells: A Review of Design, Materials, and Methods

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are a promising replacement for the fossil fuel–dependent automotive and energy sectors. They have become increasingly commercialized in last decade; however, significant limitations on durability performance limit their commercial uptake. Catalyst layer (CL) design is commonly reported to impact device power density durability; although, consensus rarely reached due differences testing conditions, experimental design, types of data reported. This further exacerbated by aspects CL such as catalyst support, proton conduction, catalyst, fabrication, morphology, being significantly interdependent; hence, wider appreciation required order optimize performance, improve durability, reduce costs. Here, cutting-edge research within field PEFCs reviewed, investigating effect different manufacturing techniques, distribution, support materials, surface chemistries, total porosity durability. These critically appraised from an applied perspective inform most relevant pathways make test commercially viable cells. holistic view competing preparation will facilitate development optimized CLs, especially incorporation novel materials.