Effect of anodic dissolution in multi-element nanoparticles on methanol electro-oxidation

Abstract

Radio frequency sputter deposition was used to deposit multi-element nanoparticles on carbon clothes for methanol electro-oxidation. Results from energy dispersive spectroscope confirmed the composition was Ft(35)Fe(12)Co(12)Ni(20)Cu(12)Ag(9). X-ray diffraction pattern suggested a fcc phase. An electrochemical de-alloying treatment was conducted in an acidic electrolyte with multiple potential sweeps at a scan rate of 20 mV/s for 0-0.3,0-0.5, and 0-0.7 V, respectively. Images from scanning electron microscope after anodic dissolutions demonstrated considerable variations in surface morphologies. Measurements on hydrogen desorption also revealed substantial increase in electrochemical active surface area. Current responses from cyclic voltammetry indicated the sample of 0-0.5 V anodic dissolution with notable enhancement. In mass activities, the same sample exhibited a comparable value to that Of Pt(43)Ru(57) (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.