Why Platinum is used in fuel cell?
Catalysis at the electrodes is a key factor of energy conversion in the fuel cell. Because valuable precious metals such as platinum are used as catalysts, increases in efficiency are of major interest for hydrogen drives.
Can fuel cells be made without platinum?
The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), for example, estimates that around four times less platinum is needed for hydrogen fuel cells to be a realistic alternative to internal combustion engines in vehicles.
Do all fuel cells use platinum?
Some advanced fuel cells, called regenerative fuel cells, combine both reactions. But most current fuel cells rely on hydrogen created by separate systems and sold as fuel. Right now, the best catalysts for both reactions are platinum group metals.
How does platinum work as a catalyst in fuel cells?
Pt is used as the catalyst for both the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) occurring at the anode and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode. Usually, the Pt catalyst takes the form of small particles on the surface of somewhat larger carbon particles that act as a support.
Why Platinum is good catalyst?
Platinum works as a catalyst by collecting oxygen atoms (O), and letting them bind with the toxic carbon monoxide (CO), to create the less harmful carbon dioxide (CO2). This provides for the first time a good explanation for the high catalytic activity of platinum in oxidation reactions.
What is platinum catalyst used for?
Platinum is used in catalytic converters, laboratory equipment, electrical contacts and electrodes, platinum resistance thermometers, dentistry equipment, and jewelry.
Which cars are least likely to have catalytic converters stolen?
Those with the unit in the engine bay are less susceptible to theft. Older models are more likely to be targeted because their catalytic converters contain far more precious metals than those fitted to the latest cars.
What Catalytic converters are the most stolen?
Every car built after 1974 has a catalytic converter, but police said these six vehicles are targeted the most:
- Toyota Tundra.
- Toyota Prius.
- Toyota Tacoma.
- Ford F-250.
- Honda Element & CRV.