Rod-like MnO₂ boost Pd/reduced graphene oxide nanocatalyst for ethylene glycol electrooxidation

Anode catalyst is one of the core components of fuel cell, but its poor catalytic activity, short lifespan, and high price are tricky problems to the commercialization of fuel cell. Herein, a novel rod-like MnO₂ decorated reduced graphene oxide (RGO) supported Pd hybrid (Pd/RGO-MnO₂) has been designed, which manifests more negative onset oxidation potential, higher peak current density, and better long-term stability relative to Pd/RGO and pure Pd catalysts when serving for ethylene glycol electrooxidation. This enhancement may be due to the addition of MnO₂, which can effectively promote the adsorption of hydroxyl at a lower potential and produce a strong electronic interaction with Pd, as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique. In view of its excellent performance and low cost, Pd/RGO-MnO₂ is considered to be a potential and effective anode catalyst for DEGFCs.