SYNTHESIS, STRUCTURAL AND ELECTROCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF THE BIMETALLIC CATALYST PT–RU/C FOR FUEL CELLS

This article presents the synthesis and comprehensive study of a bimetallic Pt-Ru/C catalyst with a Pt content of 5% by weight and a Pt:Ru atomic ratio of 1:1, obtained by chemical reduction on a carbon support. The morphology and structure of the material were studied using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, which revealed the formation of highly dispersed Pt-Ru nanoparticles with a size of about 2-5 nm, uniformly distributed over the surface of the carbon matrix. The elemental composition and homogeneity of the component distribution were confirmed by energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The phase composition of the catalyst was studied by X-ray diffraction, the results of which indicate the formation of a nanocrystalline Pt-Ru structure without obvious phase separation. The structural characteristics of the surface, determined by low-temperature nitrogen adsorption-desorption, showed the presence of a developed mesoporous structure with a high specific surface area and porosity, ensuring efficient mass transfer. The electrochemical properties of the catalyst were evaluated using cyclic voltammetry in a 0.5 M H₂SO₄ solution. The results reveal hydrogen adsorption-desorption peaks, as well as the formation of ruthenium oxide particles, indicating a bifunctional mechanism. The catalyst exhibits high electrochemical activity and stability due to the uniform distribution of the active phase and the developed support surface area. Thus, the resulting Pt–Ru/C catalyst is characterized by optimal structural and electrochemical properties and is an effective material for use in low-temperature fuel cells.

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