3D hierarchical cauliflower-like carbon nanotubes/platinum–tin nanostructure and its electrocatalytic activity for ethanoloxidation

Abstract

We report the synthesis of an advanced carbon paper (CP) macro-substrate (current collector)/carbon nanotubes (catalyst support)/Pt₇₅Sn₂₅ (nanocatalyst) architecture. The Pt₇₅Sn₂₅ was synthesized onto carbon nanotubes by mean of the cross-beam laser deposition (CBLD) technique. By varying the background gas pressure in the deposition chamber, smooth to porous structures Pt₇₅Sn₂₅ perfectly coating the carbon nanotubes were obtained. Pt₇₅Sn₂₅ deposited under 2 Torr of He resulted in a unique cauliflower-like nanostructure. This nanostructure when used as an electrode exhibits an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and high stability towards ethanol oxidation, a reaction of technological importance to direct ethanol fuel cells.