D3-4 - PROX catalyst for improved chemical CO oxidation during air bleeding

Abstract: This report discusses the integration of carbon monoxide preferential oxidation (COPROX) catalysts into the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system. This integration is essential for improving the system's tolerance to CO impurities commonly present in industrial hydrogen. The report explores the different mechanisms behind CO-PROX to gain understanding about CO-PROX catalyst key factors including selectivity and efficiency. Special focus lies on commercially available catalysts, primarily noble metal-based systems like platinum, palladium, and gold. These catalysts offer high activity and selectivity for CO oxidation at low temperatures and are evaluated for their integration into PEMFCs, highlighting their catalytic properties, efficiency, and challenges. Additionally, cost-effective alternatives like base metal oxides are discussed, emphasizing their potential for commercialization despite certain limitations in stability and selectivity. The report also investigates important performance factors such as catalyst activity, stability, and resistance to deactivation. It provides an overview of various types of PROX catalysts, both noble metal-based and emerging alternatives. Special attention is given to the CO-PROX catalyst requirements in the context of catalyst layer (CL) integration. Furthermore, the role of commercial PROX catalysts and their integration into fuel cell systems is reviewed, alongside alternative catalyst designs aiming at improving selectivity and long-term performance. The findings seek to provide guidance for selecting suitable CO-PROX catalysts for anode CL integration, considering both performance and operational practicality for the hydrogen purification required in PEMFCs