Research Progress on Pt-based Catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Abstract

With high power density, fast low-temperature response and no carbon emissions, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are widely employed for transport and distributed power generation. However, their large-scale commercialization is currently impeded by high manufacturing costs and limited durability. One major obstacle is sluggish cathodic oxygen reduction, which currently requires a substantial loading of costly platinum (Pt) catalyst. Therefore, researchers come to focus on the development of advanced Pt-based catalysts that can minimize Pt loading while maintaining high performance and intrinsic stability. This article provides an overall review of recent progress in platinum-based PEMFC catalysts, offering a comprehensive overview of strategies designed to improve the electronic structure and adsorption behavior of platinum surfaces. Specifically, the review concentrates on four key areas: the scale and morphology effects of platinum nanoparticles, the development of platinum alloys (PtM), core-shell structure design strategies, and the catalytic mechanisms of single-atom catalysts (SACs). Furthermore, the paper discusses future development directions and the industrialization prospects of these advanced materials.