CO-tolerant Catalyst for Fuel Cell Based Breathalyzers
Grant Data
Project Title
CO-tolerant Catalyst for Fuel Cell Based Breathalyzers
Principal Investigator
Professor Chan, Godwin Kwong Yu
(Project Coordinator (PC))
Co-Investigator(s)
Dr Li Chi Ying Vanessa
(Co-Investigator)
Duration
21
Start Date
2016-02-01
Completion Date
2017-10-31
Amount
301603
Conference Title
CO-tolerant Catalyst for Fuel Cell Based Breathalyzers
Keywords
CO-tolerant Catalyst, Fuel Cell Based Breathalyzers
Discipline
Others - Physical Sciences
Panel
Physical Sciences (P)
HKU Project Code
InP/016/16
Grant Type
Innovation and Technology Fund Internship Programme
Funding Year
2015
Status
Completed
Objectives
Current fuel-cell based breathalyzers which are widely used for roadside alcohol breath tests employ platinum black as the catalyst. However, Pt black suffers from CO poisoning over time, which dramatically reduces both accuracy and lifespan of the breathalyzer. A novel CO-tolerant catalyst which can mitigate this problem is therefore desired. The project aims to develop a scalable CO-tolerant catalyst that can be applied in fuel-cell based breathalyzers. The specific objectives are to: 1. Synthesize Pt-Ru, Pt/WO3, Ru/WO3 and Pt-Ru/WO3 catalysts with CO-tolerance and high stability for multiple use. 2. Screen these catalysts for their CO-tolerance and alcohol oxidation capabilities. 3. Apply the optimal catalyst(s) in breathalyzers prototypes, and compare their performances against those employing conventional catalysts. The output of this project will enhance the reliability of breath alcohol test results, and reduce the need for frequent machine recalibrations and replacements. It will be a breakthrough in the breathalyzer industry, making Hong Kong a leader in the market.