Transition metal oxides in the electrocatalytic oxidation of methanol and ethanol on noble metal nanoparticles

Abstract

In this contribution, we briefly describe the papers published over the past two years regarding the effects of transition metal oxides, utilized either as supports or as co-catalysts, on the electrochemical oxidation of methanol and ethanol on Pt and Pd nanoparticles. Oxides are inexpensive, easy to incorporate into catalysts and may also help to mitigate degradation. The difficulties of comparing results of different works that arise mainly from a wide diversity of experimental conditions, as well as some inconsistencies among reported data are discussed. Approaches that could lead to new understandings of the mechanisms of activity enhancement by oxides and the role of metal-support interactions are highlighted.