Pd-based electrocatalysts prepared by borohydride reduction method for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation in alkaline medium

Abstract

Pd/C, Au/C, AuBi/C, PdAu/C, PdAuBi/C electrocatalysts (with different atomic ratios and 20 wt% of metal loading) were prepared by borohydride reduction method using a water/2- propanol mixture as solvent, Pd(NO3)2.2H2O, HAuCl4.3H2O and Bi(NO3)3.5H2O as metal sources, carbon black Vulcan XC72 as support and NaBH4 as reducing agent. The activities of the prepared electrocatalysts for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation in alkaline medium were investigated by chronoamperometry using the thin porous coating technique. Chronoamperometry experiments showed that PdAu/C (Pd:Au atomic ratio of 50:50) has superior activity and stability for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation compared with other catalysts.