Synthesis of nanostructured Pt/C electrocatalysts and effects of ambient atmosphere composition and an intermediate support on their microstructure

Resumo

Pt/C catalysts containing 10 to 20 wt % Pt have been prepared by chemical reduction of platinum from Pt(IV) solutions. The use of an intermediate hydroxide support (Fe(OH)2 or SiO₂ · nH₂O) in Pt/C synthesis has been shown to have a significant effect on the weight percentage, crystallite size, and electrochemically active surface area of Pt. We have established how the composition of the liquid-phase synthesis atmosphere (air, Ar, or CO) influences the structural characteristics of the Pt/C materials. The electrochemically active surface area of Pt in the synthesized catalysts ranges from 32 to 152 m²/g Pt.