Synthesis of Activated Carbon Derived from Banana Peel for Application as a Catalyst Support in Fuel Cells

Hydrogen, a zero-carbon energy source with high energy density, is widely used in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC), where Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) plays an important role. This study examines the fabrication of MEAs using the Catalyst Coated Membrane (CCM) technique by airbrush spray and ultrasonic spray methods, using Pt/C catalysts on activated carbon from kepok banana peel (soft carbon) and carbon nanotubes (CNT). Activated carbon soaked with 1M NaOH for 3 hours showed a surface area of 163.075 m²/g, exceeding that of CNTs (101.466 m²/g). The Pt/C catalyst with 1M3H-1 configuration achieved the highest Pt content (52.99 wt%). The ultrasonic spray ensured an even distribution of the catalyst, with a power density of 0.167 mW/cm² (1M3H-1) achieved faster. Although the airbrush spray reaches 0.889 mW/cm² (CNT1), the time required is longer, making the ultrasonic spray more efficient.