| Nanocomposite materials have become the subject of investigation due to their unique properties. Recently, novel nanoscale carbon structures, such as single-walled nanotubes and graphitic carbon nanofibers (GCNFs) have been considered for use in heterogeneous catalysis applications, such as fuel cells.; A series of nanocomposites based upon Pt-Ru alloy and a variety of nanoscale carbon supports were prepared for use as anode catalysts in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, TEM-EDS, and chemical elemental microanalysis prior to testing in a DMFC. The carbon supports were evaluated for their use in fuel cell applications based upon their relative performance.; The use of water-soluble compounds as components in nanocomposites has been investigated. GCNF growth catalysts were prepared on silicate salts and subjected to the GCNF growth conditions appropriate for the growth catalyst. The carbon product was easily isolated from the silicate salts by dissolution of the salts in water. The growth and separation of metal nanoclusters was also investigated using this technique. |
