Synthesis of well dispersed gold nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide and application in PEM fuel cells

•rGO decorated with gold nanoparticles were prepared in mild reaction conditions.•Electrodes fabrication procedure was presented.•Accelerated stress test was carried out using a reliable EUDC.•Screening of the new hybrid cathode was evaluated for Low Power Vehicles. A facile approach for preparation of gold nanoparticles decorated on reduced graphene oxide (AuNPs/rGO) in mild reaction conditions is described. Several microscopic and spectroscopic techniques (SEM, FTIR, XPS) have been connected with structural investigation (BET) in order to confirm the successful synthesis of AuNPs/rGO nanocomposites. The end application of AuNPs/rGO in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) has been considered as innovative nanomaterial for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this respect, the electrochemical techniques were involved for a comprehensive in-situ characterization of developed ORR catalysts, in particular the durability has been assessed in order to evaluate the long-term performance. The structural characteristics and their synergistic effects could not only improve the ions and electrons transportation but also enhance the electrochemical stability in acid medium specific for PEMFC. The electrode containing AuNPs/rGO presented superior electrochemical performances as along with the long-term stability, demonstrating a considerable potential as efficient ORR catalytic material.