Two-step sequence for synthesis of efficient PtSn@Rh/C catalyst for oxidizing ethanol and intermediate products

PtSn@Rh/C-HT catalysts were designed and synthesized by a two-step sequence synthesis: Rh was firstly deposited on the carbon support and then PtSn through microwave assisted polyol method, followed by the heat treatment (HT) in a reductive atmosphere. This well-designed process provided PtSn@Rh/C-HT with a desirable electrocatalytic activity towards the electrooxidation of ethanol as well as its intermediate products. Especially, for the acetic acid electrooxidation, PtSn@Rh/C-HT behaved quite different from Pt/C, PtSn/C, PtSn@Rh/C without heat-treatment, and PtSnRh/C fabricated through one-step method, without the characteristic peaks for hydrogen adsorption–desorption but significant oxidation current of acetic acid. This gives a platform for taking full advantage of the joint synergistic effect among Pt, Sn and Rh for direct ethanol fuel cell applications.

The PtSn@Rh/C, prepared through the two-step sequence by the modified pulse microwave assisted polyol method, followed by the heat treatment in a reductive atmosphere, exhibited significantly enhanced activity towards the electrooxidation of ethanol as well as its oxidation intermediate products (acetaldehyde and acetic acid) compared to the untreated PtSn@Rh/C and PtSnRh/C by the one-step method.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► PtSn@Rh/C was prepared via a two step sequence synthesis, followed by heat treatment.
► PtSn@Rh/C was tested for ethanol and its intermediated products electro-oxidation.
► PtSn@Rh/C exhibits enhanced activity towards ethanol electro-oxidation.
► PtSn@Rh/C exhibits enhanced activity towards ethanol's intermediates oxidation.