Gold nanoparticles as a promising catalyst for efficient oxygen reduction in fuel cells: Perils and prospects

• Published in: Inorganic chemistry communications Vol. 160; p. 111961
• Main Authors: Ali Sandhu, Zeshan, Farwa, Umme, Danish, Muhammad, Asam Raza, Muhammad, Ashraf, Haseeb, Hamayun, Muhammad, Elahi, Maha, Manzoor, Ayesha, Toor, Saiqah, Al-Sehemi, Abdullah G.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.02.2024
• Subjects: Catalytic performance; Fuel cells; Gold nanoparticles; Oxygen reduction reactions; Reaction mechanism; Reaction mechanism; Oxygen reduction reactions; Fuel cells; Gold nanoparticles; Catalytic performance
• ISSN: 1387-7003; 1879-0259
• DOI: 10.1016/j.inoche.2023.111961

[Display omitted] •Fuel cells have a lot of potential as clean and effective methods for converting energy.•There are numerous ways of synthesizing AuNPs, including as chemical reduction, electrochemical deposition, and green synthesis techniques.•AuNPs' catalytic characteristics may be tuned by carefully controlling their size, shape, and surface structure.•The structure and composition of AuNPs may be better understood using advanced characterization methods.•A sustainable energy future will be made possible by ongoing research and innovation, which will additionally open the path for the effective use of AuNPs in fuel cell applications. The increasing global emphasis on renewable and sustainable energy sources has accelerated the exploration and adoption of fuel cells as an appropriate substitute. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the utilization of gold (Au) nanoparticles as highly efficient catalysts for the oxygen reduction process (ORR) in fuel cells. The utilization of Au nanoparticles has gained significant attention in recent years due to their distinctive electrochemical properties and remarkable stability. These characteristics have positioned them as a prominent candidate in this particular field. The demand for alternative catalysts has been driven by the high cost, restricted availability, and inadequate long-term durability of platinum. The examination additionally explores the impact of particle size, morphology, and alloying with other metals on the catalytic efficacy of gold nanoparticles. The present study additionally encompasses the identification and subsequent discussion of the challenges encountered in the field, as well as the strategies implemented to mitigate these challenges. Noteworthy among these strategies are the enhancement of the catalyst's resistance to poisons and the augmentation of its stability during operational circumstances. Through an in-depth analysis of this review, researchers gain valuable insights and identify potential avenues for future investigation. The objective is to advance the utilization of Au nanoparticle catalysts in fuel cell technology, positioning them as a viable, high-performing, and environmentally sustainable solution to meet the energy requirements of tomorrow.