Synthesis and characterization of W-x(CO)(n) electrocatalyst for application in a fuel cell electrode

W-x(CO)(n) electrocatalyst was synthesized in a liquid medium (xylene) at a bout 140 degreesC. The physico-chemical as well as kinetic properties of th e compound were characterized to study its possible application in a fuel c ell electrode. Techniques such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electro n microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDAX) and Fourier tra nsform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were utilized to analyze the structural , morphological and compositional characteristics, whereas cyclic as well a s linear voltametry was employed to study the kinetic properties of the cat alyst. The experimental results indicated formation of amorphous or very sm all particles of W-x(CO)(n), probably with a range of compositions. The cat alyst generally exhibits porous nature with noticeable catalytic activity f or the oxygen reduction reaction.