A novel multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT)-based nanocomposite for PEFC electrodes

A novel nanocomposite comprising MWNTs and mixed-conducting polymeric components (electronic and ionic) is prepared, characterized and investigated as a support for platinum (Pt). Nanocomposite of MWNTs and poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT?CPSS) is prepared by in situ polymerization and characterized using Fourier?CTransform infrared spectroscopy (FT?CIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies are also carried out to characterize the surface topography of MWNTs/PEDOT?CPSS nanocomposite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies reveal that MWNTs/PEDOT?CPSS nanocomposite provides better backbone for the improved dispersion of Pt as evidenced by the reduced Pt crystallite size over MWNTs/PEDOT?CPSS nanocomposite compared to MWNTs. Electrochemical characterization studies performed with Pt/nanocomposite and Pt/MWNTs demonstrate the superior catalytic activity of Pt/nanocomposite under reduced Nafion loadings in relation to Pt/MWNTs. It is observed that mixed conducting nanoporous network of MWNTs/PEDOT?CPSS composite structure promotes the catalytic activity of Pt by enhancing catalyst utilization.