Electrochemical and in situ ATR-FTIR studies of ethanol electro-oxidation in alkaline medium using PtRh/C electrocatalysts

Abstract

Pt/C, Rh/C and PtRh/C electrocatalysts with different Pt:Rh atomic ratios supported on Vulcan XC 72 carbon were prepared using borohydride as reducing agent and tested for ethanol electro-oxidation in alkaline medium. X-ray diffraction patterns showed the formation of PtRh alloy. Transmission electron micrographs showed the nanoparticles with particle sizes between 3 and 6 nm for all materials. Electrochemical experiments showed PtRh/C (50:50) the most promising material for ethanol electro-oxidation; however, in situ ATR-FTIR experiments was observed that the ethanol oxidation is incomplete due to the formation of acetate and carbonate.