Surface characterization of Pt electrodes using underpotential depositon of H and Cu

The cyclic voltammetric characterization of commercial platinum catalysts is discussed with regard to experimental variables such as nature and concentration of electrolyte and choice of sweep rate. Information available from electrochemical experiments such as surface area and distribution of hydrogen adsorption sites is obtained for BD Pt, a commercial platinum catalyst. The distribution of hydrogen adsorption sites at BD Pt is shown to be similar to that at smooth polycrystalline Pt. Also, underpotential deposition of copper is shown to be useful for surface area measurements under the proper conditions. A maximum copper coverage of 417 ..mu..C per real cm/sup 2/ is obtained at BD Pt.