Pt nanoparticles supported on NH2-MIL-101(Fe)-derived Fe–NC as an electrocatalyst for the oxidation of methanol

Abstract

The practical application of platinum-based catalysts in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) is hindered by issues such as high cost, susceptibility to poisoning, and poor stability. In this study, a novel composite catalyst, PtNP–Fe–NC, was designed by loading platinum nanoparticles onto Fe–NC, a nitrogen-doped carbon material derived from NH₂-MIL-101(Fe). The results demonstrate that the catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic performance for methanol oxidation. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests reveal that, compared with commercial Pt/C, PtNP–Fe–NC delivers a significantly higher forward peak current (approximately 2.7 times), a lower onset potential, and stronger CO poisoning resistance. Chronoamperometry (i–t) tests further confirm its superior durability. XPS results suggest that the enhanced catalytic performance may arise from electron transfer between Fe–NC and platinum, as well as the anchoring effect of Fe–NC on platinum. This study offers a new strategy for developing efficient and cost-effective anode catalysts for DMFCs.