One-Pot Synthesis of Pt–Fe for EOR: Effect of pH
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The development of efficient electrocatalysts for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) remains a major challenge for direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) due to slow kinetics and catalyst poisoning by reaction intermediates. Herein, Pt/C and Pt–Fe/C catalysts were prepared via a one-pot polyol synthesis, and the effect of pH on Fe incorporation and catalytic performance was investigated. X-ray diffraction showed lattice contraction in Pt–Fe catalysts, confirming Fe incorporation, which was more pronounced under alkaline conditions. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated a strong dependence on both Fe addition and pH. Pt–Fe/C at pH 11.4 achieved a mass activity density of 850 A/gPt, outperforming not only Pt–Fe/C neutral and Pt/C but also the commercial Pt/C catalyst at 20 mV/s. Moreover, a lower onset potential (0.479 V) and a higher If/Ib ratio (1.9) indicate faster reaction kinetics and qualitatively suggest tolerance to adsorbed intermediates. The enhanced performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of Fe incorporation through electronic and bifunctional mechanisms.
Source: ACS Omega
Institution: University of Naples Federico II
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
OpenAlex ID: W7222960093