The Activity Enhancement Effect of Ionic Liquids on Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts: From Rotating Disk Electrode to Membrane Electrode Assembly

Ionic liquids (ILs) have been explored as a surface modification strategy to promote the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on Pt/C and their chemical structures were identified strong influence ORR activities. To better understand roles of anion cation ILs catalytic reaction, two cations ([MTBD]+ [bmim]+) paired with three anions ([TFSI]−, [beti]−, [C4F9SO3]−) form various IL structures. By systematically varying combinations studying effects electrochemical behaviors, such area specific activities, it was found that structure had higher than anion, impact [MTBD]+ series stronger [bmim]+ series. In addition investigation in half-cell, studies also extended membrane electrode assembly (MEA). Considerable performance enhancements demonstrated both kinetic region high current density aid IL. This work suggests can provide complementary approach improve proton exchange fuel cells.