Remarkably Enhanced Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction Activity of Carbon-supported Pt by Facile Nickel Modification

Developing high activity catalysts for hydrogen oxidation reaction(HOR) under alkaline condition remains a challenge in the exchange membrane fuel cell(AEMFC). Herein, we report that the activity of carbon-supported platinum(Pt/C) towards the hydrogen oxidation reaction(HOR) in alkaline media can be remarkably enhanced by simple immersion of Pt/C in nickel chloride solution. The adsorption of hydrogen on the catalyst surface is weakened by modification of nickel. The HOR activity on the Pt/C after immersion possesses an excellent mass current density of 33.4 A/g(metal), which is 18% higher than that(28.3 A/g(metal)) on Pt/C.