Work

Effect of dopamine modification on the oxygen reduction reaction activity of Pt/C catalyst

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Modifying Pt-based catalysts with organic molecules offers a promising strategy to enhance oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance. In this study, dopamine (DA) was used to modify Pt/C, and its impact on electrochemical behavior and ORR activity was systematically investigated. Through DA modification, the ORR activity can be improved to 1.5 times that of pristine Pt/C. This enhancement is linked to DA’s ability to maintain a more metallic Pt surface by preventing excessive oxidation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that DA binds moderately to Pt surface, adopting an upright configuration that partially covers the surface while leaving active sites accessible. DA effectively inhibits the formation of surface-blocking OHtop–OHbridge species, thus preserving O2 adsorption pathways. This work provides mechanistic insight into DA’s function and suggests a practical route to improving fuel cell performance through organic–inorganic interface engineering.

Source: Electrochemistry Communications

DOI: 10.1016/j.elecom.2025.108093

Authors: Guoyu Shi, Donald A. Tryk, Akihiro Iiyama, Makoto Uchida, Hironori Osada, Katsuyoshi Kakinuma

Institution: University of Yamanashi

Language: English

Topic: Electrocatalysts for Energy Conversion

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,630