Scientists at the University of New York have looked into using gold and gold-platinum nanoparticle electrocatalysts for fuel cell reaction at the cathode.

The research was conducted in response to the growing demand for high conversion technology, with scientists and companies looking to improve power sources and make modern-day vehicles more environmentally friendly.

Electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity was characterised using voltammetric and rotating disk electrode techniques, according to the team from the university's department of chemistry.

In addition, current catalysts were also compared under the same measurement conditions, according to Fuel Cell Today.

Catalysts were prepared using a two-phase protocol and were thermally activated using calcination temperatures

The scientists claimed that results showed that gold and gold-platinum nanoparticle catalysts are potentially viable candidates for fuel cell catalysts under a number of conditions.

However the electrocatalytic properties are significantly changed depending on the gold-platinum composition.

Experts claim the research provides important information on the electrocatalytic activity of catalysts and will also help in the design of highly active fuel cell catalysts.