Inventors:
Gregory M. Haugen - Edina MN
Mark K. Debe - Stillwater MN
Krzysztof A. Lewinski - Oakdale MN
George D. Vernstrom - Saint Paul MN
Assignee:
3M Innovative Properties Company - Saint Paul MN
International Classification:
H01M 488
US Classification:
502101, 502305, 502309, 502311, 502314, 502353, 429 40, 429 44, 4271263, 427250, 4272553, 4272557, 4274192, 20419211, 20419212, 20419115, 2191216
Abstract:
The present invention provides fuel cell electrode catalysts comprising alternating platinum-containing layers and layers containing suboxides of a second metal, where the catalyst demonstrates an early onset of CO oxidation. Preferred second metals are selected from the group consisting of Group IIIb metals, Group IVb metals, Group Vb metals, Group VIb metals and Group VIIb metals, most preferably Ti, Ta, W and Mo. The present invention additionally provides methods of making such catalysts, preferably by alternate deposition of platinum and second metals in the presence of substoichiometric amounts of gaseous oxygen.