Carbon Nanostructures as Support Material in Fuel Cells

Considering the current scenario of depletion of fossil-fuel resources accompanied by environmental destruction, there is a high demand for an alternative, clean, sustainable, and renewable energy conversion technology. Fuel cells are considered an efficient renewable energy conversion device finding their application in various fields as an alternative energy device. Especially proton exchange membrane fuel cells owing to their merits like high efficiency with low/zero emissions and silent operation are considered eco-friendlier devices. The performance of the fuel cell is influenced by the electrocatalyst material and its support. Carbonaceous materials are well known for their use as support materials due to their high surface area and high electrical conductivity. Nanostructured carbon-based materials have received great attention and interest in the research field for enhanced electrocatalytic activity and durability. This chapter discusses the various carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon blacks, graphene, graphitic carbon materials, mesoporous carbons, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, and carbon aerogels in fuel cell applications.