Pore formation by in situ etching of nanorod PEM fuel cell electrodes

摘要

The invention includes a method for use in creating electrochemical electrodes including removing a supporting structure in situ after the assembly of the electrochemical cell.

主权项

1. A method for use in forming an electrochemical cell, comprising the sequential steps of;
providing a sacrificial support on a substrate wherein said sacrificial support comprises carbon nanorods or a water-dissolvable salt; depositing a catalyst on the sacrificial support; bringing the catalyst into contact with an electrolyte; removing the substrate; integrating said sacrificial support, catalyst and electrolyte into an electrochemical cell; and removing at least a portion of said sacrificial support during the operation of said electrochemical cell.