Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

In a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, there is a catalyst made of platinum. since platinum is very costly, i would like to ask if any other catalyst can be used in the PEMFC.

With hopes of correct reply
Githin john

Githin wrote:In a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, there is a catalyst made of platinum. since platinum is very costly, i would like to ask if any other catalyst can be used in the PEMFC.

With hopes of correct reply
Githin john

Hi, Githin!

I did a web search for "proton exchange membrane fuel cell catalyst", and I found many potential sources of information. One that stuck out was the following quote from a Wikipedia page:

"Unfortunately, while the splitting of the hydrogen molecule is relatively easy by using a platinum catalyst, splitting the stronger oxygen molecule is more difficult, and this causes significant electric losses. An appropriate catalyst material for this process has not been discovered, and platinum is the best option."

So it seems that an alternative to platinum has not yet been identified. Perhaps *you* will be the person who some day finds an alternative?

Hi Githin!

Elaborating on the previous response, you can provide "is there an inexpensive catalyst for a proton exchange membrane fuel cell?" to answers.com.

I don't know if anything will pan out, but it does offer some choices.

Two notes in using answers.com:

1. Generally, the "Sponsored Links" are commercials. So, it's best to skip them and use only the "Web Results."

2. With answers.com, you may need to tweak your wording for best results.

I use Gilette Platinum Coated Razor Blades. They have sufficient platinum coating to facilitate the electrolysis. They are much less expensive than using platinum wire