Abstract Scope |
The full potential of nanoporous metals in electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices has yet to be realized. This is due to a distinct disconnect between the fundamentals of nanoporous metal formation/evolution and electrochemical energy conversion device operation. Here we will present our work to bridge this gap, using a fundamental analysis of the dealloying process to optimize nanomaterial composition, compositional profile, and morphology with the goal of direct integration into full-cell electrochemical energy conversion devices including fuel cells and electrolyzers. In this work, we are able to demonstrate the utility of nanoporous metals for electrochemical energy conversion, taking advantage of their unique properties including tortuous porosity, high surface area-to-volume ratio, interconnected metallic backbone, etc. We will also present our work in understanding the evolution of nanoporous metals under relevant electrochemical conditions, deconvoluting the dominant mechanisms of mass flow, to develop mitigation strategies and improve device operational lifetime. |