Synthesis and characterization of catalyst layers for direct methanol fuel cell applications

Abstract

A preparation method for catalyst layers of platinum nanoparticles, as used in direct methanol fuel cells, based on pulsed electrochemical deposition within the three-phase boundary regions responsible for electrochemical reactions, was developed. A platinum precursor was brought into a carbon–Nafion layer and platinum was deposited in situ on the carbon surface. The size, size distribution and crystallinity of the deposited catalyst particles were determined by means of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements. The electrochemically active surface area of the deposited catalyst material was investigated by cyclic voltammetry, analysing the Pt–H oxidation peak.