An Optimization Study of PtSn/C Nanocatalysts Prepared by Microwave-assisted Heating and Their Application in Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell: A Comparative Study of PtSn/C Nanocatalysts

摘要

Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells (DAFCs) have become a more and more attractive energy source for portable devices. Nevertheless, one of the major drawbacks for its implementation is high catalysts cost. For operation at low temperatures (50-90 °C), these cells require electrode materials with high catalytic activity, which calls for the use of precious metals like Pt associated with Sn, Ru, and other metals on the electrode. The aim of this work was to perform a systematic study of the parameters that can influence the composition, morphology, and catalytic activity of PtSn/C nanoparticles and compare two different methods of nanocatalyst preparation, namely microwave-assisted heating and thermal decomposition of polymeric precursors.