Mixed platinum and zirconia powder as electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution and oxidation reaction

Abstract: The development of efficient and cost-effective bifunctional electrocatalysts for hydrogen-related technologies is crucial for the transition to sustainable energy. In this work, we present Pt@ZrO2 as a high-performance ceramic-based electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), demonstrating superior activity and stability in alkaline conditions. Compared to Pd@ZrO2, previously investigated in our earlier work, Pt@ZrO2 exhibits significantly lower charge transfer resistance and enhanced HER/HOR kinetics, as confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The synergistic interaction between platinum and ZrO2 stabilizes Pt in a partially oxidized state, facilitating the Volmer step and improving charge transfer kinetics. Cyclic voltammetry further confirms the remarkable electrochemical stability of Pt@ZrO2 under stress conditions. Importantly, Pt@ZrO2 offers a cost-effective alternative to pure platinum by reducing noble metal loading while maintaining excellent catalytic performance. These findings establish Pt@ZrO2 as a better alternative to Pd@ZrO2 and a promising candidate for next-generation hydrogen energy applications.