Nano-electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction: Fundamentals to Field Applications

Global warming switches our reliance from fossil fuels to green, sustainable renewable energy sources. Because of its promising nature, high-efficiency nano-electrocatalysts have sparked interest in renewable energy. Hydrogen fuel cell/polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) vehicles are the most environmentally conscious electromobility vehicles, with a high energy density and quick refuelling technology, prompting the auto industry to launch a variety of PEM fuel cell vehicles around the world. Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) primary research interests include fuel cells and metal-air batteries. The sluggish kinetic reaction of ORR, which is responsible for the rate-limiting reaction at the PEM fuel cell cathodic system, further decreases energy efficiency. Optimising ORR for market expansion with cost-effective and efficient nano-electrocatalysts, on the other hand, remains a challenge.

The book covers fundamental ORR reaction kinetics theories, tools, and techniques. It also explains the nano electrocatalysts for ORR made of noble, non-noble, and nanocarbon materials. Finally, the book explores the applications of PEM fuel cells and metal-air batteries.

Dr. Omar Solorza Feria is a Distinguished Professor of Electrochemistry at CINVESTAV-IPN's Chemistry Department. His research interests include the synthesis and characterization of nanocatalysts manufactured in liquid solvents at low temperatures for oxygen reduction reaction in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. His team developed "Sicarú" an indigence hydrogen fuel electric vehicle that is a trademark registered in IMPI Mexico. He is a specialist in the hydrogen and fuel cell field. He has received various awards and has registered five Mexican patents and three Mexican industrial designs granted by IMPI Mexico.

Dr. Sathish-Kumar Kamaraj is a Senior Research Professor Titular C in Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN)-Centro de Investigación en Ciencia Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Unidad Altamira, México. The main thrust of his research lies in the deployment of nanostructured materials and biocatalysts, such as microbes, algae and plants, for sustainable biological energy conversion systems. His research team has developed various working prototypes of plant and microbial fuel cells to power the LED, digital clock, and sensors. He has served as a guest editor in journals and as an editor in various books. He has registered three Mexican patents and three technology transfers to the industries.