Ammonium Metatungstate in Fuel Cells

In the field of fuel cells, ammonium metatungstate (AMT) serves as a key precursor for preparing tungsten-based catalysts (e.g., Pt-WO₃) used in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).

The Pt-WO₃ catalyst enhances platinum’s catalytic activity through a synergistic effect, significantly reducing the amount of precious metal platinum required, thereby lowering the cost of fuel cells.
• Technological Progress: WO₃ nanoparticles prepared from AMT solutions via sol-gel or spray pyrolysis methods, when combined with platinum nanoparticles, form highly efficient ORR catalysts. Studies show that Pt-WO₃ catalysts exhibit 20%-30% higher catalytic activity than pure platinum catalysts and demonstrate superior resistance to poisoning, particularly in methanol fuel cells.

• Advantages:
o Cost Efficiency: Reduces platinum usage, lowering catalyst costs.
o High Stability: WO₃’s chemical stability enhances catalyst durability in acidic environments.
o Tunability: AMT’s morphology control enables optimization of Pt-WO₃ nanostructures, improving catalytic efficiency.