The erosion of platinum in fuel cell catalysts is a major barrier to the technology's development, but researchers from Georgia Tech Research Institute's (GTRI) Center for Innovative Fuel Cell and Battery Technologies are looking to deal with the problem.

The researchers are seeking to improve the stability of platinum in fuel cells because currently the precious metal can be eroded in a relatively short period of time, meaning fuel cells do not at present offer the same longevity as their internal combustion counterparts.

Centre Director Tom Fuller told Science Daily: "Platinum is one of the most expensive parts of the fuel cells, so researchers study how to decrease the amount necessary to run a fuel cell."

He continued: "But if there is less platinum in the fuel cell to begin with, you can’t afford to lose any by it dissolving."

The centre has been provided with funding for more studies into various areas of fuel cell degradation, including the loss of platinum and Professor Fuller concluded: "New designs are required to improve the durability of fuel cells and in turn lower costs."

Source:

Investigating Failure Mechanisms Of Fuel Cells Will Improve Their Durability, 28/11/07
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071128105615.htm

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