FUEL CELLS – PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE FUEL CELLS | Catalysts: Non Platinum

The history of nonprecious metal catalysts (NPMCs) is less than five decades old and, until recently, was overwhelmingly dominated by academic research. Nonetheless, this article focuses on the accomplishments in the area with the best prospects for future application. Specifically, the performance of NPMCs for automotive use is studied taking into account the catalytic activity, durability, and cost. In particular, the NPMCs considered consist of an ordinary transition metal, nitrogen, and carbon from common, inexpensive precursor materials that are transformed into catalyst via thermal treatment. The essential developments leading to the present class of NPMCs are also addressed.