Polarization Analysis of Gas Diffusion Electrode with Different Fabrication Parameters in Metal-Air Batteries

The gas diffusion electrode (GDE) represents the most significant component in metal-air batteries (MABs). It is essential to understand the underlying behaviors of GDE and optimize its performance. Herein, a polarization separation method from total polarization curve to single activation, ohmic, and mass transport polarizations of GDE in MABs is proposed for the first time, which is then applied in the investigation of detailed polarization behaviors of the GDE by changing the fabrication parameters. As the polytetrafluoroethylene contents in the catalyst and gas diffusion layers and pressing pressure are adjusted, hydrophobicity, porosity, coverage, and thickness are changed to influence the performance of GDE. Through this analysis, a detailed understanding of the structure-performance relationship of GDE is achieved to improve the electrode design, architecture, and fabrication.