Fuel cell applications of single wall carbon nanotubes

Abstract

Novel carbon materials with nanometer dimensions are of potentially significant importance for a number of advanced technological applications. Currently, considerable interest exists in the possible applications of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) to fuel cells. Proposed uses include as anode materials in both hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells, solid polymer electrolyte additives, active cathode materials and bipolar plate interconnects. One of the desirable attributes afforded by the use of SWNTs in fuel cell applications stems from a combination of their high aspect ratios and electrical conductivity, which greatly reduces the amount of material needed to attain a percolation threshold. This conductivity combined with the catalytic surface area offered by these nanostructured materials makes them a potentially active material for fuel cell electrodes. In addition, the high thermal conductivity, enhanced mechanical properties and corrosion resistance may play a large role in developing new fuel cell designs such as thin-film microelectronic fuel cells. We will report on the recent work in the Nanopower Research Lab at RIT and it partners on utilizing high purity SWNTs in microelectronic fuel cells.