Session: 04-01-01: Advanced Materials for Energy

Paper Number: 146164

146164 - Exploring Cobalt-Based Layered Double Hydroxides (Ldhs) as an Alternative of Platinum for Fuel Cell Applications. 

With the demand for sustainable energy solutions steadily increasing, researchers are fervently seeking alternatives to costly and rare materials like platinum in fuel cell technology. Cobalt-based layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their remarkable electrochemical properties. In this study, we delve into the exploration of LDHs as a viable substitute for platinum in fuel cells. Through a comprehensive analysis of their structural characteristics, catalytic activity, and stability, we aim to unveil the potential of LDHs to revolutionize the landscape of fuel cell applications, offering a sustainable and economically feasible solution for clean energy production..

The Co-LDH catalyst was synthesized using a two-step procedure. Initially, a catalyst ink was formulated by blending deionized water, isopropanol, and polytetrafluoroethylene (5 wt. %) in a ratio of 4:1:0.05. This ink was utilized to create a uniform mixture of Co-LDH (5 mg/mL), which underwent ultrasonication and was subsequently applied onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Electrochemical investigations of the GCE modified with Co-LDH were carried out employing a BASi Epsilon Eclipse Electrochemical Analyzer equipped with a 3-way electrode setup comprising a Pt wire counter electrode, Ag/AgCl reference electrode, and the Co-LDH-modified GCE as the working electrode. Cobalt ink was deposited onto the surface of the glassy carbon electrode in varying volumes (5 µL, 10 µL, and 15 µL), followed by air drying at room temperature for 24 hours. For the cyclic voltammetry (CV) experiment, 0.1M HClO4 served as the electrolyte.

The electrolyte system underwent nitrogen gas purging for 15 minutes prior to blank measurements. Following this, oxygen was introduced into the cell to fully saturate the electrolyte with oxygen before conducting cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements to assess oxygen reduction at room temperature. Instrument calibration was performed to ensure optimal performance, involving the acquisition of CV data after 10 cycles and conducting multiple CV measurements with initial and final potentials set at 600mV, a switching potential of -800mV, a scan rate of 100 mV/s, and a full-scale current of 100 µA. Glassy carbon electrodes modified with Co-LDH, employed in electrocatalytic oxygen reduction under acidic aqueous conditions, exhibited promising outcomes. The CV data observed two distinct redox peaks: an anodic peak at -376 mV with a corresponding current of 13.1104 µA and a cathodic peak at -756 mV with a corresponding current of 1.3702 µA. 

These findings imply that the catalyst's presence enhances both the anodic and cathodic peaks. The thickness of the catalyst-modified GCE is still being measured in order to characterize the electrochemical products, comprehend the mechanism underlying the redox process, and find out how catalytically active the modified electrode is at different temperatures. The results of this experiment will be used as a benchmark for a fuel cell system whose working electrodes are built up to compare characteristics unique to different areas.

Presenting Author: Tiwaloluwa Olukeye University of the District of Columbia

Presenting Author Biography: Tiwaloluwa Olukeye is a dedicated and innovative Mechanical Engineering master's student specializing in energy at the University of the District of Columbia. With a profound interest in sustainable energy solutions, he is committed to addressing the global challenges of energy production and consumption. Having completed his undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering, Tiwa brings a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer to his current research. He has actively participated in research projects related to renewable energy sources, energy conversion, and energy efficiency.

Authors:

Tiwaloluwa Olukeye University of the District of Columbia
Ali Alshweiki University of the District of Columbia
Uche Udeochu University of the District of Columbia
Bushra Bari University of the District of Columbia
Pawan Tyagi University of the District of Columbia