Electrochemical oxidation of methanol on Pt/V2O5–C composite catalysts

Platinum nanoparticles have been supported on V2O5–C composite through the reduction of chloroplatinic acid with formaldehyde. The catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Catalytic activity and stability for the oxidation of methanol were studied by using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. Pt/V2O5–C composite anode catalyst on glassy carbon electrode show higher electro-catalytic activity for the oxidation of methanol. High electro-catalytic activities and good stabilities could be attributed to the synergistic effect between Pt and V2O5, avoiding the electrodes being poisoned.