Investigation of stability and degradation phenomena in model M@C / PANI nanocomposite electrodes with 2D and 3D architecture

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Julien Bachmann, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
• Term: from 2020 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 429730598

The storage of (renewable) electricity in chemical form (fuels) and its subsequent release occur in electrochemical devices such as electrolyzers and fuel cells. An economically viable exploitation of these devices requires electrode materials and architectures that are not only performant but also durable. However, electrocatalyst materials used to date are prone to corrosion and the factors affecting their stability in real electrode, which are complex multiphase entities, are not well understood. The project addresses this aspect by proposing a well-defined model system for these complex materials, one in which the effects of various factors on electrode stability can be investigated systematically. Our preparation combines an ‘anodic’ macroporous template which defines a three-dimensional geometry, polyaniline (PANI) as conductive matrix, and laser-deposited metal nanoparticles embedded in hydrogenated carbon phase (M@C) as the catalyst. We will quantify the performance and stability of these electrodes upon continuous electrolysis and compare similar electrodes differing in (1) nature of interaction between templates and polyaniline matrix; (2) nature of interaction between PANI and hydrogenated carbon phase; (3) architecture of electrode (planar films or tubes obtained on 3D template); (4) geometry of electrode (length and diameter of the tubes). The results of the comparisons will allow us to identify the most promising strategies for improving the stability of real electrodes without sacrificing performance. This ambitious goal is rendered possible by the combination of expertise from the Russian and German teams in the laser-induced deposition of metal/carbon composites and in electrochemical work (including anodization), respectively.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Russia
• Partner Organisation: Russian Foundation for Basic Research, until 3/2022
• Cooperation Partner: Professorin Dr. Alina Manshina, until 3/2022