Simple synthesis of Pt/TiO2 nanotube arrays with high activity and stability

A simple and efficient method was demonstrated for preparing the Pt/TiO2 nanotube arrays by H2 reduction. The effects of the reduction atmospheres and temperatures on Pt catalysts preparation were investigated. The well dispersion of Pt catalysts supported onto the TiO2 nanotube array exhibited favorable electrochemical performance and excellent durability. After 2000 potential cycles between 0 and 1.2 V vs. RHE, the electrochemical surface area of 350-Pt–H–TNTs electrode (Pt catalysts reduced by high purity H2 at 350 °C) decreased by 26% compared with 68% for JM 20% Pt/C after 800 cycles. Meanwhile, the 450-Pt–H–TNTs electrode (Pt catalysts reduced by high purity H2 at 450 °C) showed no decrease in the electrochemical surface area except for a little loss in the reduction of surface oxides after 2000 potential cycles. Furthermore, the electrochemical performance of 450-Pt–H–TNTs electrode is still stable after holding at 1.6 V vs. RHE for 100 h.