Preparation of Ptshell–Pdcore nanoparticle with electroless deposition of copper for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell

High over-potential induced by the irreversibility of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) causes low cell performance. In order to overcome such a problem, many research groups have been studying to enhance the catalytic activity of platinum in fuel cell. In this regard, Ptshell–Pdcore (Pt/Pd/C) nanoparticle was prepared by electrochemical method in this study. The home-made Pd/C was surrounded by Cu as a result of electroless deposition (ELD) which was followed by displacement reaction with Pt. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were applied to identify metallic composition. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) was adopted to image the catalysts. Besides, the catalytic properties were investigated using rotating disk electrode (RDE). The results indicated that the kinetics of electrochemically-prepared Pt/Pd/C catalyst for O2 reduction was superior to conventional Pt/C catalyst and the feasibility of electroless deposition in fabricating electro-catalyst was confirmed through the formation of Cu ad-layer.

.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights▶ Pt layer is formed on Pd via two successive processes; electroless deposition of Cu and its displacement with Pt. ▶ Ptshell–Pdcore exhibits higher catalytic activity than conventional Pt catalyst. ▶ Ptshell–Pdcore contains small amount of Pt leading to high mass-specific activity.