Smart Chemistry, Greener Energy: Platinum-Free Fuel Cells Are Here

Can we make fuel cells work without platinum? Turns out- yes, we can.

In a compelling collaboration with HydroLite, Prof. David Zitoun has introduced a new approach to improving silver-based catalysts for alkaline fuel cells by coating them with a smart polymer shell composed of polydopamine and polyethyleneimine (PDA/PEI).

This shell does more than just protect the catalyst- it actively enhances the fuel cell's operation. It helps move hydroxide ions more efficiently, reduces degradation over time, and improves overall performance, even under real operating conditions.

What makes this especially significant is that silver is about 50 times cheaper than platinum. And yet, with this innovation, it's beginning to compete. This is the first time a non-platinum catalyst with an ion-conducting shell has been successfully used in an alkaline exchange membrane fuel cell.

It’s a big step toward making fuel cell technology more accessible, affordable, and sustainable.

Congratulations to Prof. Zitoun and the entire team on this milestone!