Time-Dependent ("Mechanical"), Nonbiological Catalysis. 3. A Readily Prepared, Convergent, Oxygen-Reduction Electrocatalyst

The development of oxygen reduction catalysts for application in H2/O2 fuel cells

has attracted considerable recent interest [1]. This interest can be attributed to a

growing recognition that such cells offer a potential alternative, nonpolluting

power source, especially in transportation applications, where their high-power

densities allow them to compete with the internal combustion engine. H2/O2 fuel

cells are currently used in buses and various other public transportation vehicles in

several cities around the world [2]. Efforts are being made to extend their utility to

automobiles. Finding efficient and, more importantly, economical dioxygen

reduction catalysts is a significant part of this effort. Much work has focused on

the development of new, inexpensive, non-noble metal electrocatalysts.