Application of Derivative Voltammetry in the Analysis of Methanol Oxidation Reaction

Application of derivative voltammetry to methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) has been studied, and its advantage in the analysis of various aspects of MOR with regard to direct methanol fuel cell has been delineated. The derivative technique of voltammetric analysis was employed in evaluating and comparing MOR activities of carbon-supported mono-, bi-, and tri-metallic electrocatalysts. Significant enhancement in the accuracy of estimating voltammetric peak potential and onset potential of methanol oxidation current can be achieved in derivative voltammetry. Furthermore, the better signal-to-noise ratio of derivative voltammetry practically eliminates charging current. From a mechanistic point of view, derivative voltammetry is highly sensitive in resolving a peak due to parallel path mechanism. Electrochemical stability of anode catalysts can be better evaluated and monitored employing derivative voltammetry. Nevertheless, the derivative technique is simple and does not require further instrumentation or cell assembly.