Operando Investigation of Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalyst Degradation under different AST protocol in Fuel Cell

Fuel cell technology provides a clean and efficient route to convert chemical energy into electricity, with strong potential for sustainable energy systems. The cathode Oxygen Reduction Reaction(ORR) electrocatalyst is critical for performance and durability due to the sluggish kinetics. Understanding its real-time behavior and degradation under operating conditions is essential for improving fuel cell lifetime and guiding research and applications.
In this proposal, we will study ORR catalyst (Pt/C from Johnson Matthey) degradation under different accelerated stress test protocols using SAXS/WAXS to monitor grain and particle size evolution, correlating changes with degradation pathways such as aggregation, coalescence, and Ostwald ripening. X-ray fluorescence mapping will track Pt distribution during operation. Combining these operando techniques, we aim to achieve a holistic understanding of degradation mechanisms to inform improved catalyst design and enhance fuel cell durability.