Pulse electrodeposition of Pt nanocatalysts on graphene-based electrodes for proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Pulse electrodeposition of Pt nanocluster catalysts on graphene oxide (GO)-carbon paper composite electrode for proton exchange membrane fuel cells has been investigated. The primary particle size was found to be 100–300 nm for the urchin-like cluster that was composed of a number of secondary grains. Experimental results show that the GO sheets decorated with the Pt clusters displays low-equivalent series resistance (~ 2.60 Ω) and high-power density (~ 1.3 kW g− 1 at 60 °C). Hence, such a catalyst electrode, consisting of the GO sheets and the metallic Pt clusters, is proved to have several advantages such as good dispersion of catalysts and high catalytic activity.

► Pt catalysts were electrochemically deposited on graphene-carbon paper electrode.
► Urchin-like Pt particles are attached to the surface of graphene sheets.
► The Pt-graphene electrode displays low inner resistance and high power density.
► Such electrode shows the positive effects on the development of fuel cells.