Mesoporous carbon materials: Synthesis and applications in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted significant attention as sustainable energy technologies due to their efficient energy conversion and fuel flexibility. However, several challenges remain, such as low catalytic activity of fuel cell membrane electrode assembly (MEA), insufficient mass transfer performance, and performance degradation caused by catalyst deactivation over long period of operation. These issues are especially significant at high current densities, limiting both efficiency and operational lifespan. Mesoporous carbon materials, characterized by a high specific surface area, tunable pore structure, and excellent electrical conductivity, are emerging as crucial components for enhancing power density, mass transfer efficiency, and durability of PEMFCs. This review first discusses the properties and advantages of mesoporous carbon and outlines various synthetic strategies, including hard template, soft template, and template-free approaches. It then comprehensively examines the applications of mesoporous carbon in PEMFCs, focusing on their effects on the catalyst and gas diffusion layer. Finally, it concludes with future perspectives, emphasizing the need for further research to fully exploit the potential of mesoporous carbon in PEMFCs.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

mesoporous carbon materials / proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) / nanocomposites / electrocatalysis / ionomer

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