Structural functionalization of TEMPO modified Ni-MOF for electrocatalytic applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) show promise as electrocatalysts but suffer from low conductivity.
• Functionalization is key to improving electron transport and structural stability in MOFs.
• Enhancing Ni-MOF electronic structure is crucial for efficient electrocatalytic alcohol oxidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the electronic structure and electrocatalytic activity of Ni-MOF using TEMPO modification.
• To evaluate the efficacy of TEMPO-functionalized Ni-MOF (Ni-TEMPO-MOF) for alcohol oxidation reactions.
• To advance the application of MOFs in electrocatalysis through improved conductivity and stability.

Main Methods:

• Hydrothermal synthesis of TEMPO-modified Ni-MOF (Ni-TEMPO-MOF).
• Characterization using SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, and FTIR.
• Electrochemical evaluation via CV, LSV, EIS, and CA, comparing with unmodified Ni-MOF.

Main Results:

• TEMPO modification optimized Ni-MOF's electronic structure, enhancing charge transfer and catalytic performance.
• Ni-TEMPO-MOF showed a 47.0% increase in oxidation peak current density and a 0.04 V lower onset potential.
• Improved Tafel slope (86.6 mV/dec), 60% lower charge transfer resistance, and enhanced durability (50% current loss after 3600s) were observed.

Conclusions:

• TEMPO incorporation successfully augments the electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic performance of Ni-MOF.
• The study presents novel approaches for MOF utilization in electrocatalytic oxidation processes.
• Findings offer valuable insights for developing efficient electrocatalytic materials based on functionalized MOFs.