Oxygen Reduction Reaction of Partially Oxidized Tantalum Carbonitride as Non-platinum Cathode for PEFC: Dependence of Degree of Oxidation of Tantalum Carbonitride on Catalytic Aactivity

摘要

A partially oxidized TaC_(0.58)N_(0.42) has been investigated as a new cathode for polymer electrolyte fuel cells. The catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction significantly depended on a degree of oxidation of the TaC_(0.58)N_(0.42). The onset potential on the partially oxidized TaC_(0.58)N_(0.42) for the ORR had a maximum value of 0.9 V vs. RHE in 0.1 mol dm~(-3) H_2SO_4 at 30°C. The partially oxidized TaC_(0.58)N_(0.42) powders were characterized by transmission electron microscopy observation observation, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and average composition.