Preparation and characterization of graphene supported palladium nanoparticles for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Graphene found to be one of the best alternative to carbon nanotubes due to its superior properties and distinctive nanostructure. Graphene supported palladium electrocatalysts (Pd/G) is prepared using a facile microwave reduction method; which assists reduction of graphene oxide and further leads to formation of palladium nanoparticles. The structural characteristics of the prepared materials are characterized using FE-SEM, EDAX, XRD, FTIR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Electrocatalytic activity of the prepared electrocatalysts with respect to Methanol Oxidation Reaction (MOR) is analyzed using cyclic voltammetry. In addition, Vulcan carbon supported palladium electrocatlyst (Pd/G) is also prepared via same method for the evaluation of Pd/G. Further, electrocatalytic performance of prepared materials is investigated. Experiments are also carried out at different loading of palladium onto graphene matrix. This prepared graphene supported electrocatalysts having high electrocatalytic can be considered to be a better substitute for fuel cells anode material.