Galvanostatic Pulse Plating of PtRu Nanoparticles for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Preparation and characterization of a PtRu/C nanocatalyst for direct methanol fuel cells

PtRu/C nanocatalysts were prepared by changing the molar ratio of citric acid to platinum and ruthenium metal salts (CA:PtRu) from 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 to 4:1 using sodium borohydride as a reducing agent. Transmission electron microscopy analysis indicated that well-dispersed smaller PtRu particles (2.6 nm) were obtained when the molar ratio was maintained at 1:1. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed ...

Liquid methanol concentration sensors for direct methanol fuel cells

Liquid-fed direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are one of the most promising candidates for portable power electronics and automotive pplications due to their potentially high-energy density, simple storage, and distribution of the fuel. The concentration of methanol in the fuel irculation loop of a DMFC system is an important operating parameter, because it determines the electrical performance...

Metamorphosis of the Mixed Phase PtRu Anode Catalyst for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells After Exposure of Methanol: In-situ and Ex-situ Characterizations

Enhancing the methanol tolerance of platinum nanoparticles for the cathode reaction of direct methanol fuel cells through a geometric design

Mastery over the structure of nanoparticles might be an effective way to enhance their performance for a given application. Herein we demonstrate the design of cage-bell nanostructures to enhance the methanol tolerance of platinum (Pt) nanoparticles while remaining their catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction. This strategy starts with the synthesis of core-shell-shell nanoparticles w...

Optimal Concentration Control for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Two modifications to a reference direct methanol fuel-cell (DMFC) system are considered to improve methanol fuel utilisation. Fuel utilisation can be optimised by minimising the parasitic methanol crossover by manipulating methanol concentration in the fuel cells. Simulations of the two systems indicate that there is considerable potential to increase fuel utilisation for dynamic concentration ...