Project 166: Preliminary Study on Fuel Cell and DIY for its MEA
Contact Information:
Assoc. Prof. Guanghua WEI
Email: ghwei@sjtu.edu.cn
Project Description and Objectives:
This program aims to cultivate the interest and research ability of overseas students in the field of hydrogen and green energy utilization. A burgeoning global demand for clean, efficient, and sustainable energy sources makes fuel cells, especially hydrogen-based proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), has led to increased attention in alternatives to fossil-fuel-based power sources. A key component of PEMFC is the electrocatalyst, which catalyze the oxygen reduction reaction and directly determines the fuel cell performance. Platinum is the mostly used electrocatalyst, however, it suffers from the high cost and low reserve issue that limits its widespread application. Therefore, the development of alternative materials to replace platinum is necessary.
This project aims to introduce the basic design principle of electrocatalyst for fuel cells, and to practice the design, preparation and optimization of high-performance novel parts – membrane electrode assembly. In addition, the hope is to improve the hardware facilities for students’ learning. In the meanwhile, we would like to build a team of instructors with an international perspective to guide engineers, and consider the characteristics of international students to teach, to ensure el ective teaching management and communication for overseas students.
Eligibility Requirements:
Interested students should have a basic knowledge of chemical engineering or material science.
Main Tasks:
Develop students' interest in electrochemistry.
Let students enjoy the process of basic scientific research in SJTU.
To write a regular experimental report and give a research presentation.
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