Synthesis and Characterisation of Nanoparticulate WC Electrocatalysts

Tungsten carbide (WC) has been synthesized by microwave induction heating (microwave induction heating) from a precursor of tungsten, hydrogen peroxide, and carbon. Investigations were conducted into the effect of changing the precursor preparation conditions with the aim of reducing the final particle size and encouraging the complete carburization of the precursor. Using a fast evaporation technique with the precursor produced greater carburization of the resultant powder after microwaving. Adjusting the precursor carbon content affected both the temperature in the microwave reaction cell and the amount of carbon available for carburization. WC made in this way was subject to electrochemical investigation. The passivation and electrocatalytic response of the material towards the hydrogen reaction was tested and found to be significant.