Comparative analysis of selected metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction activity: Advances in synthesis, durability, and efficiency

Abstract

The progress of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) over the last few decades indicates that the cell has faced challenges in terms of commercialization and sustainability. These challenges are primarily attributed to the high cost of catalysts and durability issues. Reducing the amount of platinum is the key finding that can solve the catalyst's cost problem. The platinum load can be reduced or eliminated either by alloying with transition metals or substituting with other non-platinum metals. This review work has focused on the synthesis of catalysts using platinum metal catalysts alloyed with transition metals, as well as non-platinum metal catalysts supported on nitrogen doped carbon. It was observed that the synthesis method plays a crucial role in determining the durability and efficiency of the catalyst. From the transition metals, Pd showed excellent electrocatalytic activity similar to that of Pt metal. The study indicates that the preparation of the catalyst is challenging, resulting in rapid degradation and a short durability time. It was demonstrated that a novel synthetic strategy possesses a catalyst with strong durability, efficiency, and enhanced intrinsic activity. This review highlights the current progress of the catalyst and suggests future research directions for the scientific community.