Catalytic phenomena during the methanol oxidation at platinum electrodes in contact with solid polymer electrolytes

The methanol electrooxidation at platinum-gauze electrodes contacting a sol id polymer electrolyte is studied in water and sulfuric-acid solutions by v oltammetry in a broad potential range and by measuring steady-state current s and electrode coverages with chemisorbed species at low anodic potentials . The specific rate of the methanol oxidation in these systems is higher th an that of similar platinum electrodes in liquid electrolytes. The catalyti c action depends on the measurements conditions and the electrode potential . Reasons for catalytic effects at different potentials are discussed.