Performance of DMFC anodes with ultra-low Pt loading

DThe electrochemical behaviour of Pt-decorated unsupported Ru catalysts-based anodes has been investigated in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). A preparation procedure allowing the surface decoration of unsupported Ru catalysts by Pt nanoparticles has been developed. DMFC power densities of 150 mWcm(-2) at 130 degreesC have been achieved with ultra-low Pt loading anodes (0.1 mg cm(-2)) under air feed operation. Adsorbed methanolic residues stripping voltammetry analysis has been carried out to get information on the electrocatalytic activity of the Pt-decorated anodes in relation to the state-of-art carbon supported Pt-Ru (1: 1) alloy and bare unsupported Ru catalysts. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.