Ordered SnO(2)@C Flake Array as Catalyst Support for Improved Electrocatalytic Activity and Cathode Durability in PEMFCs

Pt-SnO(2)@C-ordered flake array was developed on carbon paper (CP) as an integrated cathode for proton exchange membrane fuel cell through a facile hydrothermal method. In the integrated cathode, Pt nanoparticles were deposited uniformly with a small particle size on the SnO(2)@C/CP support. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis revealed lower impedance in a potential range of 0.3–0.5 V for the ordered electrode structure. An electrochemically active surface area and oxygen reduction peak potential determined by cyclic voltammetry measurement verified the synergistic effect between Pt and SnO(2), which enhanced the electrochemical catalytic activity. Besides, compared with the commercial carbon-supported Pt catalyst, the as-developed SnO(2)@C/CP-supported Pt catalyst demonstrated better stability, most likely due to the positive interaction between SnO(2) and the carbon coating layer.