FUEL CELL CATALYSTS
Abstract
The electrochemical oxidation of methanol and related fuels was studied in sulfuric acid and selected salt solutions on platinum catalysts at temperatures ranging from ambient to 200 C. Anode potentials improve greatly with increase in temperature. In the case of methanol, polarization decreases at the rate of 1.7 mV/degree C, in sulfuric acid using platinum catalysts. The decline in polarization is slower in potassium bicarbonate solutions indicating a diffusion limited electrode process. Poisoning effects are being encountered at temperatures of 150 C. While the loss of activity is particularly pronounced with formic acid, and increase in polarization is also observed with methanol at prolonged current drains. Further studies are required to elucidate the cause of these findings. Cathode potentials also improve substantially with temperature, which is attributed to an accelerated rate of decomposition of the peroxide intermediate. The performance of the oxygen electrode at ordinary and elevated temperatures is strongly affected by the pH of the solution. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0292631
Entities
People
- O.j. Adlhart