This course, based on the research presentation delivered by Dr. Quentin Meyer, Senior Research Fellow at UNSW, examines the critical scientific and engineering barriers preventing large-scale commercialization of hydrogen fuel cells.

The material focuses on the transition from platinum-based systems toward iron-based platinum-free catalysts, while analyzing the structural, electrochemical, and transport-related challenges associated with this transition.

Particular attention is given to catalyst degradation, operando electrochemical characterization, proton transport limitations, carbon corrosion, and advanced imaging methodologies combining X-ray tomography, artificial intelligence, and large-scale simulation.

The course explores the complex relationship between catalyst architecture, fuel cell performance, and long-term durability.