Optimization and validation of carbon nanofiber catalyst supports in fuel cell stack

Motivated by the urgent need for clean and sustainable source of energy we propose to develop structurally and chemically controllable fuel cell catalyst layers based on ultrafine nanocomposite carbon fibre catalyst support. Manufacturing parameters will be controlled and optimized to investigate the effect of microstructure on key performance factors. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from this study will pave the way to building more efficient fuel cells. Current phase of the project involves validating our design by in-situ testing. This will allow us to draw conclusions about the current design and evaluate the challenges for future scale-up production.

Faculty Supervisor:

Frank Ko

Student:

Sophia Chan

Partner:

Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation Corp.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Nanotechnologies

University:

University of British Columbia