Characterization and Performance of Catalyst Layers Prepared by Inkjet Printing Technology

The relationship between the structure of cathode catalyst layers (CCLs) prepared by different coating techniques and fuel cell performance was investigated. Inkjet printing technique was employed for producing CCLs directly on Nafion membranes, while Mayar bar was used to prepare conventional CCL coating that was decaled-transferred on to the membrane. Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy was used to determine the ionomer and carbon support distributions within the interior of both CCL structures. Distinctly different ionomer distributions were observed impacting Pt- utilization.