Electrochemical and structural characterization of carbon-supported Pt–Pd bimetallic electrocatalysts prepared by electroless deposition

Abstract

Electrochemical and structural characteristics of various Pt–Pd/C bimetallic catalysts prepared by electroless deposition (ED) methods have been investigated. Structural analysis was conducted by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Monometallic Pt or Pd particles were not detected by EDS, indicating the ED methodology formed only bimetallic particles. The size of the Pt–Pd bimetallic particles was smaller than those of a commercially available Pt/C catalyst. The morphology of the Pt on Pd/C catalysts was identified and corresponded to Pd particles partially encapsulated by Pt. The electrochemical characteristics of the lowest Pd loading catalyst (7.0% Pt on 0.5% Pd/C) for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have been investigated by the rotating ring disk electrode technique. The electrochemical activity was equal or lower than the commercially available Pt/C catalyst; however, the amount of hydrogen peroxide observed at the ring was reduced by the Pd, suggesting that such a catalyst has the potential to decrease ionomer degradation in applications. The Pt on Pd/C catalysts also show a higher tolerance to ripening induced by potential cycling. Therefore, catalyst suitability cannot be judged solely by its initial performance; information related to specific degradation mechanisms is also needed for a more complete assessment.