Abstract: A catalyst comprises vapor-deposited, at least partially de-alloyed PtXaAlb, wherein X is Mo or W, a is at least 0.001 and b is at least 2.4(1+a). The catalyst is particularly useful as an electro-oxidation catalyst in a fuel cell and is preferred for use in a reformate fuel cell.

Abstract: The invention provides a catalyst useful in a proton exchange membrane containing fuel cell for the electrooxidation of fuels prepared by the chemical activation of vapor deposited substantially semicrystalline PtXaAlb onto a substrate, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of Ru, Rh, Mo, W, V, Hf, Zr, Nb and Co, and a is at least 0.001, and b is at least 0.85·(1+a), with the proviso that when a=1 and b=8, X is only selected from the group consisting of W, V, Hf, Zr, Nb, and Co. These catalysts have an onset voltage for the electrooxidation of methanol of less than about 240 mV versus a saturated calomel electrode (SCE). They are useful in making diffusion backing electrodes and catalyst coated membranes for use in fuel cells.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for producing perfluoroolefins of the formula CF(R1f)═CF2, where R1f is F or CF3. The process involves (a) perfluorinating cyclobutanes of the formula where R2f is F or CF3, and where one R1 is H and the other R1 is H when R1f is F and is CH3 when R1f is CF3, by the Simons electrochemical fluorination process in an electrochemical cell in a solution of anhydrous liquid hydrogen fluoride under temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to replace all hydrogens in the cyclobutane of the above formula with fluorine; and (b) cracking the perfluorinated cyclobutane. A disclosed cracking involves contacting the perfluorinated cyclobutanes with carbon or a conductive metal, which is heated by induction heating to a temperature sufficient to crack the perfluorinated cyclobutanes.