Catalytically active CNT-polymer-membrane assemblies: From synthesis to application

Kirsten Prehn*, Rainer Adelung, Martin Heinen, Suzana P. Nunes, Karl Schulte

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

43 Scopus citations

Abstract

A new membrane electrode assembly set up for catalytic processes containing carbon nanotubes has been developed. The process includes the nanotube synthesis, sputter deposition of platinum as catalyst and the membrane casting. Aligned nanotube carpets were grown from toluene/ferrocene solutions and sputtered with platinum. Subsequently the assembly was investigated using cyclic voltammetry to confirm a sufficient catalyst activity. A procedure was developed to embed the carbon nanotubes doped with catalyst into SPEEK membranes, while preserving the aligned structure and keeping some surface area of the catalyst-doped nanotubes free of membrane material to allow for easy access to reactants. So far the best results were obtained using an aligned but somewhat loose nanotube structure and a deposition of 0.034 mg/cm2 Pt, forming a combination of small catalyst clusters and a thin film. The assemblies are optimized in respect to application in fuel cells and functional membranes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)123-130
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Membrane Science
Volume321
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Electrocatalytic activity
  • Multiphase system
  • Nano-composite
  • Nanostructured electrode
  • Sputtering deposition

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • General Materials Science
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
  • Filtration and Separation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Catalytically active CNT-polymer-membrane assemblies: From synthesis to application'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this