Improved oxygen reduction reaction activities with amino acid R group functionalized PEG at platinum surfaces

摘要: We demonstrate here that coupling specific amino acid “R” groups to polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains through amide bonds and adsorbing them platinum (Pt) black improves oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysis over a bare metal, even at high polymer loadings. Through our studies, we first show the presence of PEG on Pt nanoparticles increases half-wave (E1/2) potentials, most likely by preventing oxidation or Pt–OH formation. also show, however, in E1/2 did not necessarily correlate with gains mass activities, while commercial PEG–OH fact lowered conjugation alcohol-containing R connected led 100–200% reactivity. This work presents evidence counters common conception organic capping ligands decrease catalytic activity; activity may actually be improved metal judicious choice design inhibit control chain packing surface. These studies therefore it still possible have nanoparticle surface allow particles well-dispersed an electrode simultaneously enhancing without further particle treatment.