3D Electrodes from aluminium foams prepared by replication process

Aluminium foams with pores displaying both regular size and distribution have been prepared by replication methods. Their volumetric density and electrical conductivity were 0.65 g cm −3 and 2.44 MS m −1 , respectively. This method represents a simple way to produce 3D metal macroporous electrodes. In addition, the aluminium foam has been employed as support to produce 3D platinum electrodes (Pt/Al foam) by electrodeposition. The conditions for platinum electrodeposition have been established, and the electrodes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The electrocatalytic behaviour of the Pt/Al foam electrodes to methanol oxidation has been tested in 1 M CH 3 OH + 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 solutions.