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Alkaline Ethanol Oxidation Reaction on Carbon Supported Ternary PdNiBi Nanocatalyst using Modified Instant Reduction
Bernd Cermenek1, Boštjan Genorio2, Thomas Winter1
1Institute of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology, Fuel Cell Systems Group, Graz University of Technology, NAWI Graz, Inffeldgasse 25/C, 8010 Graz, Austria.
A new synthesis method creates efficient ternary PdNiBi nanocatalysts for direct ethanol fuel cells. These catalysts exhibit enhanced activity for the alkaline ethanol oxidation reaction, improving fuel cell performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) require improved electrocatalysts for efficient alkaline ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR).
- Existing catalysts often suffer from agglomeration and limited activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel synthesis method for ternary palladium-nickel-bismuth (PdNiBi) nanocatalysts supported on carbon.
- To enhance the electrocatalytic activity and stability of catalysts for the EOR in DEFCs.
Main Methods:
- A modified instant reduction synthesis method was employed to prepare PdNiBi/C nanocatalysts.
- Catalysts were characterized using various structural and compositional analysis techniques.
- Electrochemical performance was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry with a rotating disk electrode.
Main Results:
- The modified method yielded well-dispersed Pd85Ni10Bi5 nanoparticles (3.7–4.7 nm) on Vulcan XC72R, preventing agglomeration.
- Pd85Ni10Bi5/C(II) demonstrated superior EOR activity (150 mA·cm-2, 2678 mA·mg-1) and low onset potential (0.207 V).
- Performance surpassed commercial Pd/C and other synthesized PdNiBi/C catalysts.
Conclusions:
- The modified instant reduction synthesis is effective for creating highly active and stable carbon-supported ternary nanocatalysts.
- This approach offers a promising pathway for developing advanced electrocatalysts for future energy conversion devices.
- The developed PdNiBi/C nanocatalysts show significant potential for enhancing DEFC performance.
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