The Influence of pH on the Morphology and Electrochemical Behavior of Pd–Pt thin Films Prepared by Electro-less Deposition

Abstract

Pd–Pt thin films over titanium substrates were coated through electro-less deposition method as a function of pH values. It is concluded that highly acidic medium is helpful in achieving high amount of Pd–Pt coatings. The prepared thin films of different Pd–Pt ratios were characterized using the techniques of scanning electron microscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The catalytic efficiency was evaluated under static air conditions for hydrogen and oxygen recombination reaction. The developed catalysts have been found to be highly efficient for removal of hydrogen. Comparison of the hydrogen evaluation reaction, HER by Pd/Pt bimetallic catalysts with different percentages of Pd and Pt was measured and concluded that the hydrogen removal efficiency of catalyst having 35 wt % palladium and 65 wt % platinum (Pd35Pt65) prepared at pH value 1.2 was the best. The catalytic efficiency of all catalysts was in the range of 67% whereas the best sample was Pd35Pt65 deposited at a pH value of 1.2 and its efficiency was of the order of 86.7 ± 2%. Thus, it is concluded that these films may be used as sensors to monitor HER reactions and may be used at places where removal of atomic hydrogen is desired to avoid accidents.