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Electroless Synthesis of Highly Stable and Free‐Standing Porous Pt Nanotube Networks and their Application in Methanol Oxidation
Author(s) -
Walbert Torsten,
Antoni Markus,
Muench Falk,
Späth Thomas,
Ensinger Wolfgang
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
chemelectrochem
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.182
H-Index - 59
ISSN - 2196-0216
DOI - 10.1002/celc.201701271
Subject(s) - materials science , nanotechnology , nanotube , electrocatalyst , catalysis , methanol , cyclic voltammetry , porosity , nanostructure , electrochemistry , fabrication , template , nanoparticle , chemical engineering , polycarbonate , fuel cells , direct methanol fuel cell , carbon nanotube , electrode , composite material , chemistry , organic chemistry , anode , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology , engineering
Free‐standing 3D metal nanostructures represent an upcoming class of electrocatalysts for fuel cell technology, combining high aging stability and activity with efficient metal utilization while abstaining from additives such as polymer binders. Until now, most fabrication routes are complex and produce disordered nanostructures. Here, we present a highly adjustable, wet‐chemical synthesis route toward ordered, thin‐walled Pt nanotube networks. The approach includes an optimized electroless plating procedure and enables easy regulation of structural parameters (i. e. nanotube diameter, wall thickness, density) by using ion track‐etched polycarbonate templates. In comparison to individual nanotubes, the resulting nanonetworks exhibit a free‐standing and robust frame, which is a great advantage for use in various electrochemical and catalytic applications. Cyclic voltammetry studies of the methanol oxidation reaction demonstrate enhanced electrocatalytic activity compared to commercially available Pt nanoparticles. The nanonetworks provide outstanding long‐life stability with up to 97 % of the initial active surface area after 1000 cycles, which makes them a promising material in different application fields, for example, in direct methanol fuel cells.