Synthesis of Pt-Ni/CNT cathodic catalyst and its application in a PEM fuel cell

Abstract

This work reports the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic activity of Pt-Ni/CNT with a low platinum load to use as cathode electrocatalyst in PEMFC (proton-exchange membrane fuel cells). The synthesis of nickel particles on the carbon nanotubes surface was carried out by chemical reduction of a Ni(ethylenediamine) complex; after that, the galvanic displacement reaction was performed to platinum deposition onto Ni/CNT. The Pt-Ni/CNT was deposited by spray technique on a gas diffuser layer (GDL) and subsequently subjected to several potential cycles to promote Ni atoms migration. Finally, its catalytic activity was evaluated in a fuel cell.