Abstract
In this study a promising approach for a novel fuel cell catalyst layer is shown using films of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) formed by the layer-by-layer (LbL) method. A special focus is on the dispensing procedure of CNTs in water what is one of the most essential steps to realize monolayers in a reproducible way as targeted in LbL. Furthermore, the platination of the tubes is demonstrated using the reduction of platinum salt in ethylene glycol resulting in a sufficient distribution of nanosized particles. Finally, ultrathin films based on the functionalized nanotubes are investigated with atomic force microscopy, showing promising results for the future use as catalyst layer.
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Acknowledgments
Parts of this work have been done in the frame of Multiplat Project. Multiplat has recieved funding from the European Community’s FP7–NMP Programme, under the Grant Agreement No. 228943.
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Bohnenberger, T., Steinhäußer, F., Matovic, J. et al. Platinated ultrathin films made of carbon nanotubes. Microsyst Technol 18, 863–868 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-011-1391-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-011-1391-y