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Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotube with Doped Co and N Atoms and its Catalytic Applications in Hydrogen Production
Published on: December 6, 2021
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A nickel phosphine complex as a fast and efficient hydrogen production catalyst
Lu Gan1, Thomas L Groy, Pilarisetty Tarakeshwar
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University , Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|January 7, 2015
Summary
A novel nickel complex, [Ni(bdt)(dppf)], efficiently catalyzes proton reduction to hydrogen. This electrocatalyst demonstrates high activity, low overpotential, and stability in acidic solutions, offering a promising pathway for hydrogen production.
Area of Science:
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Electrocatalysis
- Sustainable Energy
Background:
- Developing efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen production is crucial for renewable energy.
- Nickel complexes offer potential as earth-abundant alternatives to precious metal catalysts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a novel S2P2 coordinated nickel complex, [Ni(bdt)(dppf)], for electrocatalytic proton reduction.
- To investigate the catalytic activity, efficiency, and stability of this complex.
Main Methods:
- Electrocatalytic reduction of protons to hydrogen.
- Synthesis and characterization of the [Ni(bdt)(dppf)] complex.
- Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate the catalytic mechanism.
Main Results:
- The [Ni(bdt)(dppf)] complex exhibits fast and efficient catalysis with a turnover frequency of 1240 s(-1).
- Achieved an overpotential of 265 mV for half activity at low acid concentrations.
- Demonstrated stability for at least 4 hours in acidic solution and catalysis with a weak acid.
Conclusions:
- The novel nickel complex is a highly effective electrocatalyst for hydrogen production.
- DFT calculations support a mechanism involving protonation at the nickel center.
- The catalyst's efficiency, stability, and ability to operate with weak acids show significant potential for practical applications.
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