1 Hexanol Based Catalyst Inks for Catalyst Layer Preparation for a DMFC

Abstract

The catalyst ink preparation for a catalyst layer production by screen printing for a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is evaluated. Among a large variety of solvents 1hexanol was chosen for the preparation due to its properties fitting the requirements for the ink preparation. 1hexanol based catalyst inks lead to thicker catalyst layers compared to isopropyl/propylalcohol based catalyst inks, currently used inhouse. Despite showing different layer properties, MEAs based on 1hexanol or isopropyl/propylalcohol based catalyst layers show comparable electrochemical performances. When using 1hexanol based catalyst inks the dispersion procedure shows great influence on the outcoming catalyst layer. Long dispersion periods and a medium power output of ultrasonication of the catalyst dispersion are beneficial and lead to good coating qualities of the catalyst layer and therefore to high electrochemical performances.