Platinum-based anode catalyst systems for direct methanol fuel cells

Direct methanol fuel cell may become a practical device sooner or later. For effective utilization of this device for energy conversion the anode reaction has to be promoted efficiently and economically. Among the various anode catalysts tried, Pt-based systems have shown some promise and Pt in combination with other metals are examined in order to overcome the poisoning effect of partially oxidized product, such as Co or –CHO species. The limitations in this technology, namely, carbon corrosion, Ru dissolution, and crossover, in addition to methanol crossover, have to be overcome to make this a commercially viable technology. The prospects of this technology are also outlined.