Platinum/multiwalled carbon nanotubes-platinum/carbon composites as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Pt-loaded multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Pt/MWCNTs) have been prepared by chemical reduction method using functionalized MWCNT synthesized by pyrolysis of acetylene over MmNi2 (Mm denotes misch metal) hydride catalyst. Composites of Pt/MWCNT and commercial Pt-loaded carbon black (Pt/C) have been used as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Cathode catalyst with 50% Pt/MWCNT and 50% Pt/C showed best performance due to better dispersion and good accessibility of MWCNT support and Pt electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in PEMFC. A maximum performance of 540 mV at a current density of around 535 mA cm -2 has been obtained. © 2006 American Institute of Physics.