Prudent Practices in ex situ Durability Analysis Using Cyclic Voltammetry for Platinum‐based Electrocatalysts. Issue 21 (8th September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Agrawal, Khantesh; Naik, Adarsh Ajith; Chaudhary, Saroj; Parvatalu, Damaraju; Santhanam, Venugopal
• Is Part Of: Chemistry, an Asian journal. Volume 16:Issue 21(2021)
• Page Start: 3311
• Page End: 3325
• Publication Date: 2021-09-08
• Subjects: Cyclic voltammetry -- Durability test -- Electrochemical Surface Area (ECSA) -- Fuel cell vehicles -- Pt-based electrocatalyst; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540.5
• DOI: 10.1002/asia.202100746
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1861-4728

Abstract

Abstract: Platinum (Pt)‐based electrocatalysts are at the vanguard of research initiatives to meet activity and durability targets for promoting large‐scale adoption of fuel cell vehicles. Ex situ characterization of electrocatalyst activity and durability using cyclic voltammetry (CV) has a steep learning curve. Thus, many researchers who do not receive formal training in electrochemistry are left unsure how to proceed. Herein, we identify and compile prudent practices for reliable assessment of ECSA values with examples from our research on nanoscale catalytic films formed by the self‐terminating electrodeposition of Pt. Starting with a conceptual framework to understand typical features in the CV of reversible redox couples, we present prudent practices in acquiring CV data aimed at nonelectrochemists. We then highlight specific features related to ECSA computation from Pt CV. Finally, we suggest safeguards that help avoid missteps and achieve repeatable results while conducting ex situ durability tests that extend over days. Abstract : Prudent practices for ex situ durability analysis : Nonelectrochemists working on PEMFC electrocatalyst development are baffled by inconsistent data artefacts during prolonged cyclic voltammetry tests. A closer look at experimental details reveals the need for prudent practices to avoid such artefacts. Herein, we emphasize prudent practices for beginners to avoid missteps and achieve repeatable results during lengthy ex situ durability analysis.