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Scanning Photoelectron Microscopy Study of the Pt/Phosphoric‐Acid‐Imbibed Membrane Interface under Polarization
Author(s) -
Doh Won H.,
Gregoratti Luca,
Amati Matteo,
Zafeiratos Spyridon,
Law Yeuk T.,
Neophytides Stylianos G.,
Orfanidi Alin,
Kiskinova Maya,
Savinova Elena R.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
chemelectrochem
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.182
H-Index - 59
ISSN - 2196-0216
DOI - 10.1002/celc.201300134
Subject(s) - phosphoric acid , polarization (electrochemistry) , membrane , polymer , x ray photoelectron spectroscopy , scanning electron microscope , hydrogen , chemical engineering , materials science , electrode , chemistry , analytical chemistry (journal) , chromatography , organic chemistry , composite material , biochemistry , engineering
A model membrane‐electrode assembly of a high‐temperature polymer‐exchange membrane fuel cell based on a phosphoric‐acid‐imbibed membrane is studied under polarization by using scanning photoelectron microscopy (SPEM). The ability of SPEM to simultaneously probe the morphology, surface composition, and chemical state of cell constituents provides essential information on processes relevant to fuel cells. Despite the low ambient pressure of 1×10 −5 mbar, by utilizing a dynamic high‐pressure system, it is possible to monitor the Pt‐catalyzed reduction of phosphoric acid with hydrogen and unveil the long‐disputed nature of the ensuing products.