Pt:Sn/GO electrocatalysts for methanol and ethanol oxidation reactions: Effect of bimetallic composition and carbon support types

Pt and Pt:Sn nanoparticles were prepared by sonochemical synthesis. Three different Pt:Sn ratios (1:1), (1:2), and (2:1) as well as two carbon supports (graphene oxide and Vulcan) were investigated on the electrochemical activity for methanol and ethanol oxidation reactions in acid medium. Characterization results indicated that the Pt:Sn composition modified the particle size and crystallinity. The oxygen content, morphology, and structure of graphene oxide support increased the Pt dispersion. The presence of Sn favors the methanol oxidation reaction reducing the formation of intermediates. Electrochemical results indicated that Pt:Sn/GO (2:1) with higher load of Pt presented superior specific activity for methanol and ethanol oxidation reactions compared to Pt/C and Pt/GO electrocatalysts. Graphic abstract (B. Ruiz-Camacho et al.)