Pt/carbon nanofibers electrocatalysts for fuel cells: Effect of the support oxidizing treatment

Different Pt-based electrocatalysts supported on carbon nanofibers and carbon black (Vulcan XC-72R) have been prepared using a polymer-mediated synthesis. The electrocatalysts have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and cyclic voltammetry. The effect of carbon nanofibers treatment with HNO3 solution on Pt particle size and electroactive area has been analyzed. Highly dispersed Pt with homogeneous particle size and an electroactive area around of 100 m2 g−1 is obtained in raw carbon nanofibers. The oxidizing treatment of the carbon nanofibers produces agglomeration of the platinum nanoparticles and an electroactive area of 53 m2 g−1. Durability studies indicate a decrease of 14% in the electroactive area after 90 h at 1.2 V in 0.5 M H2SO4 for platinum supported on raw carbon nanofibers and Vulcan XC-72R. The electrocatalyst supported on oxidized carbon nanofibers are stable under similar conditions.