Chitosan−Derived nitrogen−Doped carbon aerogel as a catalyst carrier for direct methanol fuel cells

While researching anode catalysts in DMFC that are based on platinum, achieving smaller particle diameters and homogeneous dispersion of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) is crucial for enhancing catalyst activity. In this research, chitosan−based nitrogen−doped carbon aerogel (CA) was modified with poly(3,4−ethylenedioxythiophene) (PProDOT) through in situ polymerization to obtain PProDOT/CA as a catalyst carrier. The unique three−dimensional mesh structure of CA provides a larger active area for the catalyst, while the modification with PProDOT not only introduces more reactive sites, but also enhances the dispersion of Pt NPs and reduces their particle size. Methanol oxidation is improved by the Schottky connections that develop at the interface of Pt nanoparticles (NPs). The Pt/PProDOT/CA catalyst shown remarkable electrocatalytic activity during methanol oxidation, as demonstrated by the test findings,(electrochemically active surface area, ECSA value is 71.20 m 2  g −1 and mass activity, MA value is 997.40 mA mg −1 Pt ). Additionally, the catalyst demonstrated good long−term working stability and resistance to CO toxicity. Furthermore, methanol molecules exhibited lower activation energy on the surface of this catalyst, indicating that methanol is more easily oxidized upon adsorption.