The development of efficient electrocatalysts is central to advancing CO2-to-fuel technologies, particularly in enabling low-overpotential methane generation from carbon dioxide. This study focuses on the performance of a Pt0.8Ru0.2/C catalyst in a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) designed for simultaneous power generation and CH4 production. The system operates by oxidizing H2 at the anode (Pt/C) and reducing CO2 at the cathode (Pt0.8Ru0.2/C), with both reactions occurring near their theoretical potentials. A critical finding is that CH4 can be produced without overpotential at 0.20 V vs. RHE when CO2 is supplied at a concentration of 7 vol% in argon. Under these conditions, the faradaic efficiency reaches 18.2%, surpassing previous results with Pt/C (12.3%) and demonstrating the superior catalytic activity of the Pt-Ru alloy. The enhanced performance stems from the electronic modification induced by Ru doping, which weakens the adsorption strength of CO intermediates (COads) on the catalyst surface—a key factor limiting CH4 formation on pure Pt. By reducing CO binding energy, the Pt0.8Ru0.2/C catalyst facilitates the desorption of COads and promotes its further reduction to CH4 via a Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism involving surface-adsorbed hydrogen (Hads). In situ analysis using cyclic voltammetry and mass spectrometry confirms that CH4 is selectively formed at potentials where hydrogen evolution is suppressed. The optimal CO2 concentration of 7 vol% balances the availability of CO2 feed with the need to avoid competitive hydrogen evolution and excessive COads accumulation. At this condition, the molar ratio of COads to Hads approaches 1:8, close to the ideal stoichiometry required for CH4 synthesis. Long-term operation at a fixed potential of 0.20 V shows stable CH4 output, indicating resistance to catalyst deactivation.SERPINA1 Antibody MedChemExpress The cell delivers a maximum power density of 0.14 mW cm⁻², consistent with the peak CH4 yield rate of 86.3 mol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. These results highlight the importance of catalyst composition in controlling reaction pathways and improving selectivity.HFE Antibody Purity Compared to earlier systems using Pt/C or other non-platinum catalysts, the Pt0.PMID:34864132 8Ru0.2/C-based PEFC exhibits up to tenfold higher power output and three-and-a-half times greater CH4 production rate. The ability to operate at low temperature (40 °C) makes this technology compatible with renewable energy integration and avoids the high thermal demands of conventional methanation processes. While challenges remain in achieving higher faradaic efficiency and scaling up the system, this work establishes a clear path toward practical CCU applications through rational catalyst design and process optimization.MedChemExpress (MCE) offers a wide range of high-quality research chemicals and biochemicals (novel life-science reagents, reference compounds and natural compounds) for scientific use. We have professionally experienced and friendly staff to meet your needs. We are a competent and trustworthy partner for your research and scientific projects.Related websites: https://www.medchemexpress.com
