TNS-Tin nano- structures
This research offers a unique insight into the use of high surface area metallic tin
nano structures as support material for platinum catalysts for fuel cell application.
The ß-tin nano-structures (TNSs) in aqueous solutions by novel one-pot process
methods were used for preparation of high surface area metallic TNS.
The selected parameters controlling the size and shape of TNSs was performed,
including selected surfactant molecules at various concentrations, tin salts and the
addition of sodium citrate (see Figure 1). Rod-shaped particles with a 50 nm
diameter and 500 nm lengths were obtained. A maximal surface area of 170 m 2g-1
was measured.
The HRTEM shown that the TNS growth along the (111) These particles had a β-Sn
crystalline core, and with a main lattice plane of (101) (Figure 2).
Electrochemical oxidation of methanol on platinum catalyst, supported on metallic Sn
nano-structure, exhibit a high activity, which is comparable to commercial carbonsupported platinum catalysts (Figure 3). The results of in-situ surface enhanced Raman
(SER), emphasizing the role of surface oxides on the methanol oxidation activity.