Pd nanoparticles supported on HPMo-PDDA-MWCNT and their activity for formic acid oxidation reaction of fuel cells

A novel Pd electrocatalyst is developed by self-assembly of Pd nanopartilces on phosphomolybdic acid (HPMo)-poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA)-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes supports (Pd/HPMo-PDDA-MWCNTs). The as-synthesized Pd/HPMo-PDDA-MWCNTs were characterized by TEM, EDS mapping, Raman spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochmeical CO stripping and cyclic voltammetry techniques. Pd nnaoparticles deposited on HPMo-PDDA-MWCNTs are in the range of 3.1 nm with uniform distributon. Pd/HPMo-PDDA-MWCNT catalysts have lower overpotential for CO ad oxidation manifested as lower peak and onset potentials as compared to acid-treated MWCNTs supported Pd (Pd/AO-MWCNTs) and carbon supported Pd catalysts (Pd/C). Pd/HPMo-PDDA-MWCNTs catalysts also exhibit a much higher electrocatalytic activity and stability for formic acid oxidation reaction as compared to that on Pd/AO-MWCNTs and Pd/C. The high electrocatalytic activities of Pd/HPMo-PDDA-MWCNTs catalysts are most likely related to highly dispersed and fine Pd nanoparticles as well as synergistic effects between Pd and HPMo immobilized on PDDA-functionalized MWCNTs. ► Novel synthesis of Pd electrocatalysts on HPMo and PDDA-functionalized CNTs. ► Uniform dispersed Pd nanoparticles. ► High activity and stability for the formic acid oxidation reaction as compared to conventional Pd catalysts. ► Synergistic effect between Pd nanoparticles and immobilized HPMo.