Pt–Co bimetallic catalyst supported on single walled carbon nanotube: XAS and aqueous phase reforming activity studies

We have developed a simple method to create a catalyst with atomically dispersed Pt on top of Co nanoparticles on single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) supports by sequential impregnation of Pt(II) and Co(II) solutions following by hydrogen reduction. The aqueous phase reforming activity is much higher than for Pt monometallic catalysts on SWNT supports prepared by several methods, either pre-reduced in hydrogen or in the liquid phase. The high selectivity of the monometallic catalysts is maintained for the bimetallic systems. The Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) results at the Pt LIII edge show no observable Pt–Pt bond. Only Pt–Co bonds were observed, indicating high dispersion of Pt. The enhanced activity comes from two sources: the high dispersion of Pt and the effect of the Co as co-catalyst or modifier. This contribution demonstrates the possibility to further engineer bimetallic catalysts to improve the aqueous phase reforming activity, especially to retain good selectivity at high conversion.