Supported cobalt-promoted platinum bimetallic nanoparticles – a thermal study

Abstract

The Co-promoted Pt-based bimetallic catalysts were prepared using surface organometallic method (SOMC), to obtain catalysts with cobalt to platinum surface atomic ratio of 1:2 and 1:1. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) profiles showed two distinct temperature regions for hydrogen uptake both by the parent 5% Pt/Al₂O₃ and the Co-promoted catalysts. The shift in peak maxima in the case of promoted catalysts to higher temperatures has been interpreted as a result of formation of interfacial sites responsible for improved performance of the bimetallic catalysts. Thermogravimetric and calorimetric (DSC) studies, performed in oxidizing and reducing atmospheres supported the TPR results and confirmed the stability of catalysts up to 600°C.

Keywords: Low-temperature fuel cells, TGA, DSC, Bimetallic nanoparticles, CO oxidation, TPR