Ionomer–Catalyst Interfaces

What this topic covers

Why proton-conducting polymer must contact catalyst without blocking gas transport.

Core energy-system ideas

Fuel-cell and electrolyzer catalyst layers require both ionic and electronic pathways.

Ionomer distribution affects access of protons to catalyst sites.

Too much or poorly distributed ionomer can impede gas transport.

Important tradeoffs

Catalyst-layer performance emerges from reaction kinetics and transport at the same time.

Material and performance evidence

Lower platinum loading can increase sensitivity to local transport or degradation effects.

Lifecycle perspective

Manufacturing scrap is part of platinum material accounting and can be an important recycling stream.