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Directing oxygen reduction reaction selectivity towards hydrogen peroxide via electric double layer engineering
Jingyi Chen1, Yilin Zhao1, Haozhou Yang1
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117585, Singapore. wanglei8@nus.edu.sg.
Nanoscale
|February 2, 2023
Summary
This study enhances hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production using electrocatalysis by engineering the electric double layer. Introducing a cationic surfactant significantly boosts H2O2 selectivity and activity in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- The electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a key process for sustainable H2O2 production.
- Improving selectivity towards the desired 2-electron pathway is crucial for efficient H2O2 synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a facile strategy for enhancing ORR selectivity and activity towards H2O2 production.
- To investigate the role of electric double layer engineering in promoting the 2e- ORR.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing immobilized cobalt phthalocyanine as an electrocatalyst.
- Employing electric double layer engineering with a cationic surfactant (CTAB).
- Conducting kinetic analysis to understand reaction mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Achieved over 93% selectivity for H2O2 production, a significant increase from below 60%.
- Enhanced the intrinsic activity for H2O2 formation by more than 3 times.
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of CTAB in modifying the electrode/electrolyte interface.
Conclusions:
- Electric double layer engineering via cationic surfactants is an effective strategy to boost 2e- ORR performance.
- Enhanced electric field strength at the interface and reduced charge transfer resistance contribute to improved H2O2 formation.
- This approach offers a promising pathway for sustainable and efficient H2O2 synthesis.
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