One of the challenges for the commercialization of polymer
electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) is the development of new cathode catalysts for
the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) that exhibit superior activity and
durability than conventional platinum (Pt) catalysts (Pt/C).
Here, Zaenal Awaludin, Takeo Ohsaka, and colleagues at
Department of Electronic Chemistry report the development of TaOx (tantalum
oxide) nanoparticles capped with Pt nanoparticles (Pt/TaOx) that possess a
higher activity and durability than a Pt catalyst alone.