Synthesis and characterization of platinum nanoparticles on carbon nanosheets with enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward methanol oxidation

Abstract This report describes carbon nanosheets (CNSs) were employed as a catalyst support for loading platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) by one-step electrodeposition. The structure, size, and chemical composition of the CNS-supported Pt NPs (Pt/CNSs) were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopies, energy dispersive X-ray and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. The electrocatalytic performances of the Pt/CNSs for methanol oxidation have been investigated by cycle votammetry and chronoamperometry. These results demonstrated the Pt/CNSs possess high electrocatalytic activity and excellent stability due to high dispersion of Pt NPs on the CNS surface and the special nature properties of CNSs. The Pt/CNSs should be a promising electrocatalyst in direct methanol fuel cells.