New approaches to non-PGM catalysts through rational design

The catalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode represents the rate-limiting step in the overall electrocatalytic process inside of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The platinum group metals (PGMs) are current materials of choice for the cathode catalyst. Their high costs and limited reserves pose a significant challenge in implementing PEMFC for broad base commercial application. In this report, we discuss some of our recent activities in developing non-PGM electrocatalysts using rational design and synthesis approach. A variety of porous organic materials were developed as the catalyst precursors for the preparation of ORR catalysts with high surface area and active site density free of additional carbon support. Electrocatalytic activity and physical property of the new catalysts were investigated by various techniques in an attempt to understand the process of the active site formation.