New insights into Rh-Pt electrocatalysts with low Pt content for ethanol electro-oxidation reaction

Author(s)

Galiote, Nelson Alexandre ; Angelucci, Camilo A. ; Del Colle, Vinicius ; Tremiliosi-Filho, Germano

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Electrochimica Acta; v. 526, p. 11-pg., 2025-06-20.

Abstract

In this work, a new strategy to incorporate small amounts of Pt atoms-an active material- into an inactive Rh matrix, forming metallic nanoalloys dispersed on carbon of high surface area (Black Pearls (R) - BP). This approach results in synergistic materials that have much better activity toward COQ formation and improved stability during the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in acid media when compared to the pure Pt material. The results are discussed based on crystal lattice parameter modifications focusing mainly on the lattice strain and, consequently, the electronic modification at the Pt sites. Those modifications lead to different ethanol adsorption as ethoxide termination, better long-term EOR activity, and better CO2 production than pure Pt which normally is not observed for most electrocatalysts studied in the literature. Therefore, these materials show great potential as key materials for the development and advancement of direct alcohol fuel cells. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/15230-5 - Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation - RCG2I
• Grantee: Julio Romano Meneghini
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 19/22183-6 - Electrocatalysis VI: fundamental and applied aspects of emerging and classical problems in electrochemical energy conversion
• Grantee: Edson Antonio Ticianelli
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants