Catalysis of Direct Methanol Electro-Oxidation in Buffered Electrolytes: Final Report for the Period July 15, 1983 to January 14, 1987

摘要

Aqueous potassium carbonate-potassium bicarbonate solutions were evaluated as electrolytes for the direct oxidation of methanol. The potassium carbonate-potassium bicarbonate electrolyte was examined at temperatures from 80 to 175 sup 0 C and steam pressures up to 6 atmospheres. Pt/Ni, Pt/MoS sub 2 , Pt/Fe sub 2 O sub 3 , Pt/Ru and Pt/Sn were identified as potential catalysts for the direct oxidation of methanol in a potassium carbonate-potassium bicarbonate electrolyte. Evaluation of these materials in half cells at temperatures of 175 sup 0 C indicated potential stability problems with long term use. A preliminary evaluation of oxygen reduction in the potassium carbonate-potassium bicarbonate electrolyte showed that the performance of a methanol-air fuel cell would be limited by the activity of the cathode. 29 figs. (ERA citation 13:021820)