In Situ Observation of Nafion-Model Molecular Behaviors at Metal Electrodes by SEIRAS

Abstract

The role of ionomer inside catalyst layers of polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) are much interested to understand the reaction mechanism and to optimize the structure of catalyst layer in the molecular scale. Electrochemical and spectroscopic investigations are performed in perfluoroalkylsulfonic acid electrolyte as models for side-chain of Nafion ionomers. Specific adsorption of Nafion side chain model anion is observed both at Pt(111) and Au(111)-like electrodes. The effect of perfluoroalkyl chain length seems clearer at Au(111)-like electrode than at Pt(111) and monitored by in situ SEIRA spectroscopy.