High performance catalytic system with enhanced durability in PEM fuel cell

In this work, gold nanoparticles decorated on reduced graphene oxide (Au/rGOs) samples were synthesized by employing the eco-friendly microwave-assisted process (MW). This rapid process has proven to be a viable and trustworthy new method for Au/rGOs preparation ensuring the simultaneous reduction of GO and obtaining of Au nanoparticles through a simple and facile one-step reaction in aqueous solution. The structure and morphology of prepared Au/rGOs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, BET surface area. These analyses revealed good phase stability and distinct morphology. The as-prepared Au/rGO was involved in developing of a new membrane electrode assembly (MEA) and in-situ tested in long-time operation of PEMFC. The electrochemical stability of the innovative cathode was evaluated using an accelerated stress test (AST) - cycling potential protocol. The performed aggressive AST demonstrated excellent stability, thus we report an ORR electrocatalyst with enhanced durability. Moreover, this study extends the method applicability in respect to the preparation of other noble metal nanoparticles decorated on reduced graphene oxide. • AuNP/rGOs were prepared by using the eco-friendly microwave-assisted process. • Innovative cathode electrode and MEA fabrication procedure are presented. • The electrochemical stability was evaluated using the accelerated stress test AST. • The excellent stability of developed cathode was demonstrated in PEMFC.