A novel multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT)-based nanocomposite for PEFC electrodes

摘要

A novel nanocomposite comprising MWNTs and mixed-conducting polymeric components (electronic and ionic) is prepared, characterized and investigated as a support for platinum (Pt). Nanocomposite of MWNTs and poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOTa€“PSS) is prepared by in situ polymerization and characterized using Fouriera€“Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTa€“IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies are also carried out to characterize the surface topography of MWNTs/PEDOTa€“PSS nanocomposite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies reveal that MWNTs/PEDOTa€“PSS nanocomposite provides better backbone for the improved dispersion of Pt as evidenced by the reduced Pt crystallite size over MWNTs/PEDOTa€“PSS nanocomposite compared to MWNTs. Electrochemical characterization studies performed with Ptanocomposite and Pt/MWNTs demonstrate the superior catalytic activity of Ptanocomposite under reduced Nafion loadings in relation to Pt/MWNTs. It is observed that mixed conducting nanoporous network ofMWNTs/PEDOTa€“PSS composite structure promotes the catalytic activity of Pt by enhancing catalyst utilization.