Platinum black
CAS 7440-06-4
Platinum black is unsupported, finely divided platinum with high electrochemically active surface area — the reference electrocatalyst for fuel-cell research and the classical Adams-type catalyst for hydrogenations requiring a carbon-free system.
Typical specification
| Molecular formula | Pt |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 195.08 |
| Platinum content | ≥ 99.95% (trace metals basis) |
| Appearance | Black metallic powder |
| Specific surface area (BET) | 20 – 30 m²/g (fuel-cell grade on request) |
| Loss on drying | ≤ 0.5% |
| Trace impurities (Pd, Rh, Fe, Cu) | ICP report per lot |
| Origin of metal | Primary and certified recycled feed, full assay traceability |
| HS code (export) | 7110110000 |
Lot-specific COA issued with every shipment. SDS and ICP elemental impurity data available on request.
Where Pt black is used
Fuel cell and electrolyzer catalysis
The benchmark hydrogen-oxidation and oxygen-reduction electrocatalyst in PEM fuel-cell research and MEA development, and a standard anode material in PEM water electrolysis where carbon supports corrode.
Carbon-free hydrogenation
Used where Pt/C is unsuitable: hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes, nitro and carbonyl groups with clean catalyst filtration and no carbon fines in the product stream — relevant for parenteral-grade API steps.
Electrodes and sensors
Platinized surfaces built from Pt black lower electrode impedance in biosensors, pH and conductivity cells, and neural-interface research electrodes.
Storage and shipping
Storage. Store sealed and dry, away from hydrogen, organic vapors and flammable solvents; finely divided platinum catalyzes ignition of hydrogen–air mixtures.
Shipping. Transport classification depends on particle size and grade; air shipments include a cargo transport condition appraisal accepted by major carriers.
Packaging. 1 g · 5 g · 10 g · 50 g · Custom lots by contained-metal weight
Synonyms
- Pt black
- Platinum powder (high surface area)
- Platinum, finely divided
- Fuel cell grade platinum black
Frequently asked questions
How is platinum black priced?
On contained metal at the day's Pt fixing plus a per-gram fabrication charge for the powder conversion. With platinum trading at a premium in recent years, we recommend fixing the metal leg at order confirmation.
Can you supply a specific BET surface area?
Yes — surface area and particle size distribution can be specified per lot and certified on the COA. Fuel-cell customers typically specify 25–30 m²/g with an ECSA acceptance test.
Is platinum black dangerous to handle?
The metal itself is inert, but high-surface-area platinum catalyzes ignition of hydrogen and solvent vapors. Keep containers sealed, ground equipment when transferring, and never expose fresh powder to hydrogen–air mixtures.
Do you buy back spent platinum black?
Yes — spent catalyst and electrode scrap are assayed on receipt and the platinum credited against new supply or settled at the fixing.