Enhanced Performance of Pristine Au Catalysts in the Presence of Ag for Alcohol Electrooxidation

In the present study, we demonstrate a one-pot capping agent free synthesis of metal nanoparticles deposited on low dimensional carbon supports. A laser ablation mediated synthesis (LAMS) of gold-silver on graphene and/or carbon nanotube composite is reported here. We aim to remove the use of surfactants, which are known to mask the performance of the catalyst. The composite materials have been well characterized morphologically as well as, functionally using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. It has been observed that the introduction of Ag into the bimetallic catalyst has made the electro-oxidation of ethylene glycol and glycerol more facile. The synergistic influence of the two metal nanoparticles, with the added advantage of its pristine surface, pose an enhanced catalytic effect for alcohol electrooxidation. In addition, the onset potential for the reaction has been found to be more negative that translates to its plausible application in Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells. Figure 1 <jats:p /