PtxNi alloy nanoparticles as cathode catalyst for PEM fuel cells with enhanced catalytic activity

A series of PtxNi/C (x = 1-3) nanoparticle catalysts were prepared using a chemical reduction method, where the aim was to reduce the Pt loading and maintain high catalytic reactivity towards the oxygen reduction reaction. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical performance of the PtxNi/C alloy catalysts was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, steady-state measurements, and chronoamperometric testing. We found that the catalytic reactivity of Pt catalysts towards oxygen reduction can be maintained or even enhanced by partially replacing platinum with nickel. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.