XPS, SEM and Electrochemical Characterization of a Platinum-Based Glassy Carbon Modified Electrode. Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Ethanol in Acidic Medium

A platinum-based chemically modified glassy carbon electrode (Pt-CME) was characterized in acidic medium by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical techniques. A uniform distribution of platinum microparticles of different form and size (hexagonal, grain-like and globular) was present on the surface of glassy carbon. The chemical species present on the electrode surface changed upon polarization. At higher potential vatues (1.5 V) species such Pt(OH)2, Pt(OH)ads, and Pt(OH)4 formed at lower potential values were transformed into PtO, PtOads and PtO2 respectively. A few aspects of the electrooxidation ofethanol in acidic medium were investigated on the Pt-CME described.