The stability of Pt–M (M=first row transition metal) alloy catalysts and its effect on the activity in low temperature fuel cells

Carbon supported platinum metal alloy catalysts (Pt–M/C) are widely used in low temperature fuel cells. Pt alloyed with first-row transition elements is used as improved cathode material for low temperature fuel cells. A major challenge for the application of Pt–transition metal alloys in phosphoric acid (PAFC) and polymer electrolyte membrane (PEMFC) fuel cells is to improve the stability of these binary catalysts. Dissolution of the non-precious metal in the acid environment can give rise to a decrease of the activity of the catalysts and to a worsening of cell performance. The purpose of this paper is to provide a better insight into the stability of these Pt–M alloy catalysts in the PAFC and PEMFC environments and the effect of the dissolution of the non-precious metal on the electrocatalytic activity of these materials, in the light of the latest advances on this field. Additionally, the durability of a PtCo/C cathode catalyst was evaluated by a short test in a single PEM fuel cell.