Pt-TiO 2 Nanocomposite PEFC Electrocatalysts for High Potential Cycle Durability

Abstract

Pt/C is widely used as the electrocatalyst for PEFCs, while durability is still an important issue associated with e.g. detachment and aggregation of Pt nanocatalysts. As oxide-supported electrocatalysts exhibit high durability against potential cycling, Pt-TiO 2 nanocomposite electrocatalysts with a maximum contact area between Pt and TiO 2 are developed for further improving their durability. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and microstructural observation by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) confirmed the preparation of Pt-TiO 2 nanocomposite electrocatalysts. Optimal preparation conditions are considered by varying the volume ratio of Pt to TiO 2 . Possible advantages and remaining issues of this nanocomposite concept are discussed.