Microwave-Assisted synthesis of platinum-Tungsten/ graphene catalysts

Abstract

In this study a rapid microwave heating method was used to prepare the graphene supported platinum-Tungsten catalysts with different Pt:W molar ratios (denoted as PtW/GR). Transmission Electron Microscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy were used for the characterization of prepared catalysts. The electrocatalytic activity of the PtW/GR catalysts with respect to the oxidation of borohydride in an alkaline medium was investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry and chrono-Techniques. It has been determined that the graphene supported platinum-Tungsten catalysts with the Pt:W molar ratios equal to 1.6:1, 2.3:1 and 7.1:1 were prepared. The prepared PtW/GR catalysts with different Pt:W molar ratios show an enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of H2 generated by catalytic hydrolysis of BH4 -And direct oxidation of BH4 - compared with the bare Pt/GR and W/GR catalysts.