Supported bimetallic nanoparticles as anode catalysts for direct methanol fuel cells: A review

Abstract Direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is an environment friendly energy source that transforms chemical energy of methanol oxidation into electrical energy. The Pt- and non-Pt based bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) with electrocatalyst support materials are employed as anode electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation. These supported BMNPs have drawn prominent consideration due to their incredible physical and chemical properties. This article reviews the advancements in the field of supported BMNPs of varied structures, compositions and morphologies, using innumerable carbonaceous support materials such as carbon black, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, graphene, mesoporous carbon as well as non-carbonaceous supports like inorganic oxides, graphitic carbon nitride, metal nitrides, conducting polymers and hybrid support materials. The performance of electrocatalysts on the basis of support material, structure, composition and morphology of BMNPs, and pros and cons of various support materials have been discussed.