Rational Design of Cu@Pd Core-Shell Nanostructures via Galvanic Replacement for Dual Electrochemical Applications:...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Developing bifunctional electrocatalysts is crucial for sustainable energy and environmental technologies.
• Simultaneous green hydrogen production and water purification remain significant challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present novel Cu@Pd core-shell nanostructures as bifunctional electrocatalysts.
• To evaluate their performance in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and nitrate reduction reaction (NRR).

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Cu@Pd core-shell nanostructures via template-assisted electrodeposition of Cu and galvanic Pd modification.
• Electrochemical characterization of the catalysts on pyrolytic graphite electrodes (PGEs).
• Assessment of HER activity, stability, and NRR performance in alkaline and neutral conditions.

Main Results:

• Optimized Cu@Pd/PGE exhibited superior HER activity (onset potential 70 mV, Tafel slope 33 mV dec⁻¹).
• Demonstrated excellent stability during prolonged HER operation.
• Achieved 60% nitrate removal with high selectivity towards ammonia and minimal nitrite formation during NRR.

Conclusions:

• The synergistic Cu-Pd interface enhances bifunctionality for both HER and NRR.
• Cu@Pd nanostructures offer a versatile platform for sustainable hydrogen production and effective water denitrification.
• The developed catalyst shows significant potential for integrated energy and environmental applications.