The Lifetime of Hydroxyl Radical in Realistic Fuel Cell Catalyst Layer

Abstract

AbstractThe lifetime of hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) in the fuel cell catalyst layer remains uncertain, which hampers the comprehension of radical‐induced degradation mechanisms and the development of longevity strategies for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, we have precisely determined that the lifetime of ⋅OH radicals can extend up to several seconds in realistic fuel cell catalyst layers. This finding reveals that ⋅OH radicals are capable of carrying out long‐range attacks spanning at least a few centimeters during PEMFCs operation. Such insights hold great potential for enhancing our understanding of radical‐mediated fuel cell degradation processes and promoting the development of durable fuel cell devices.