Synthesis/Processing/Manufacturing
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High-throughput Fabrication of PGM-free Electrodes
This capability enables optimization of electrode inks for new catalysts, allowing the study of ink composition and rheology on cell performance and uses small-scale and large-scale automated approaches for fabrication of catalyst-coated membrane and gas-diffusion electrode-based membrane-electrode assemblies from these inks. Read More
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PGM-free Catalyst Synthesis, Analytical Characterization, and Electrochemical and Fuel Cell Testing
The expertise in PGM-free catalyst synthesis, characterization, and fuel cell testing at LANL is built on decades-long experience and proven results, and is the most important capability within LANL's PGM-free program by far. Read More
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Controlled Functionalization of Model Catalysts
The energetic neutral atom beam lithography and epitaxy (ENABLE) capability represents a controlled method for clean and selective introduction of heteroatom dopants into a variety of substrates, including highly graphitic 2D structures, accompanied by in-situ characterization and diagnostic capabilities. Read More
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Sputter Deposition of Thin Films and High Surface Area Catalysts
Two sputter deposition chambers with the ability to deposit PGM-free catalysts by sputtering. Samples can be grown in thin film form or as conformally deposited supported nanoparticles on any vacuum stable support powder. Read More
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Membrane-Electrode Assembly Fabrication
Fabrication of PGM-free catalyst membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) involves three essential steps: (i) catalyst ink optimization and preparation, (ii) catalyst layer deposition onto the polymer electrolyte membrane to obtain a catalyst coated membrane or onto the gas diffusion layer to obtain a gas diffusion electrode, and (iii) integration of all required components into an MEA. Among the many factors directly impacting PGM-free catalyst ink properties, all inks require homogeneous distributions of the ionomer and the catalyst in the ink by using either an ultrasonic bath or a shear mixer. Read More
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Manufacturing Porous Electrodes
The BMF has capabilities in materials characterization (particle size, zeta potential, surface energy, rheological property, morphology), materials processing (electrode formulation, slurry preparation), electrode coating (tape casting, slot die coating, UV curing, electron beam curing), electrode calendering, cell assembly, and testing. Read More
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High-throughput Synthesis of PGM-free Catalysts and Electrodes
Argonne’s High-Throughput Research Laboratory has two robotic platforms with solid and liquid handling, cooling and heating, and dispensing capabilities. One platform is in an inert atmosphere for air sensitive synthesis of materials and the other with an air atmosphere for non-air sensitive synthesis. Read More