Structural changes and catalytic activity of platinum nanoparticles supported on C60 and carbon nanotube films during the operation of direct methanol fuel cells

Comparison of the structure and activity of Pt nanoparticles anchored on two nanostructured carbon supports, C60 and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) provides insight into their electrocatalytic activity in direct methanol fuel cells. The local structure of platinum atoms during the initial stages of the catalytic oxidation of methanol was probed using x-ray absorption spectroscopy. A large fraction of the Pt atoms in the Pt–C60 nanocomposite continuously undergoes structural changes during the initial stages of methanol oxidation. The Pt-CNT system, however, proves to be more robust in maintaining its initial morphology and higher electrocatalytic activity. These observations reflect the importance of the carbon support in controlling the catalyst morphology and activity during methanol oxidation.