Platinum–graphene hybrid nanostructure as anode and cathode electrocatalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract

In the present study, platinum nanoparticles decorated on graphene sheets have been employed as electrocatalysts for both oxygen reduction reaction and hydrogen oxidation reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. A green and simple approach has been followed for the reduction of graphite oxide using L-ascorbic acid (L-ARGO). Platinum nanoparticle decoration on graphene (Pt/L-ARGO) sheets has been carried out by polyol reduction technique. The structural and morphological characterizations have been performed by different characterization techniques to confirm the formation of materials. The power densities have been evaluated from the recorded polarization curves. The single cell measurements show that the electrocatalytic activity of Pt/L-ARGO is superior in comparison to chemically reduced Pt–graphene systems.