The enhancement effect of MoOx on Pd/C catalyst for the electrooxidation of formic acid

Molybdenum oxide (MoOx) was added to a Pd/C catalyst using a novel two-step procedure. The enhancement effect of MoOx on Pd/C catalyst for the electrooxidation of formic acid was verified by electrochemical experiments. Compared to the Pd/C catalyst, the experimental results showed that the addition of MoOx could significantly enhance the electrocatalytic performances for the electrooxidation of formic acid. Significant improvements in electrocatalytic activity and stability were primarily ascribed to the effect of MoOx on the Pd catalyst. In addition to the large specific surface area, the hydrogen spillover effect is speculated to have accelerated the electrooxidation rate of formic acid in the direct pathway. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.