Effect of H2O2 Concentration on the Electrochemical H2O2 Oxidation and Reduction Reactions on the Pt/C Catalyst in Acid Solutions

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation reaction (HPOR) and reduction reaction (HPRR) play vital roles in various innovative H2O2-related electrochemical energy conversion systems. Understanding the interactions of H2O2 with catalyst surfaces and its impact on HPOR/HPRR activity at the working potential is essential for the further development of these H2O2-related systems. Herein, we investigate the effects of the H2O2 concentration on the HPOR/HPRR activities for Pt/C catalysts and reveal the complex influence of H2O2 on the oxygen coverage of the Pt surface at various potentials. In addition, we find that the apparent number of electrons transferred at the HPRR potential differs from its theoretical value, which is attributed to the release of unreacted hydroxyl radicals via the chemical dissociation of H2O2 at the Pt surface. These findings expand our understanding of the interactions of H2O2 and Pt/C catalysts at the electrochemical interface for HPOR and HPRR, providing valuable insights into the underlying reaction mechanisms.