Research project: Russell: Electrocatalysts for PEM and Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
The electrocatalysts in proton exchange membrane (PEM) and direct methanol (DMFC) fuel cells, also known as low temperature fuel cells, typically consist of metal nanoparticles dispersed onto a conducting (often carbon) support. In this research group we seek to relate the activity and durability of the catalyst nanoparticles to their structure and electronic properties. Much of the research focuses on the study of platinum and platinum-based binary or ternary alloy particles.