Iwuoha, Emmanuel I.Petrik, Leslie F.Dept. of ChemistryFaculty of Science2014-02-062024-05-132010/01/212010/01/212014-02-062024-05-132008https://hdl.handle.net/10566/14776Doctor Scientiae - DScIn this study novel composite electrodes were developed, in which the catalytic components were deposited in nanoparticulate form. The efficiency of the nanophase catalysts and membrane electrodes were tested in an important electrocatalytic process, namely hydrogen production by water electrolysis, for renewable energy systems. The activity of electrocatalytic nanostructured electrodes for hydrogen production by water electrolysis were compared with that of more conventional electrodes. Development of the methodology of preparing nanophase materials in a rapid, efficient and simple manner was investigated for potential application at industrial scale. Comparisons with industry standards were performed and electrodes with incorporated nanophases were characterized and evaluated for activity and durability.enMesoporous supportCatalyst dispersionNanophase electro catalystCathodeAnodeElectrolysisProton conductivityMembrane Electrode AssemblyHydrogen productionSolid Polymer Electrolyte ElectrolyzerThesisUniversity of the Western Cape