Ceria-Supported Platinum as Hydrogen-Oxygen Recombinant Catalyst for Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries

Ceria-supported platinum synthesised by a novel solution-combustion method, results in ionically substituted platinum sites on nanosized ceria crystallites. It is found to be an excellent hydrogen and oxygen recombinant catalyst at room temperature for recovery of water in sealed lead-acid batteries. The use of this catalyst prevents any change in the quantity or concentration of the sulphuric acid electrolyte in the battery during its operation, which is pivotal to enhancing both its performance and lifespan. The catalyst could be equally advantageous to alkaline storage batteries, and, in particular, sealed nickel-iron batteries, thus giving them a revived commercial interest. 39 refs.