Highly Efficient Ethanol Electrooxidation on a Synergistically Active Catalyst Based on a Pd‐Loaded Composite of Hydroxyapatite

Abstract

By using a well‐structured composite of hydroxyapatite and carbon nanotubes and the immobilization of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs), a synergistically active catalyst toward the ethanol electrooxidation reaction (EOR) is proposed herein. The application of hydroxy‐rich substrates, such as hydroxyapatite, for the immobilization of Pd NPs could be promising to enhance electrocatalyst activity toward the ethanol oxidation reaction. The hydroxyapatite–carbon nanotubes composites were synthesized through two distinct precipitation approaches. The structural features of each composite were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. According to electrochemical tests, remarkable enhancements were achieved in the electrocatalytic activity, kinetic parameters, and catalyst durability. The proposed catalyst showed a mass‐independent current of 1874.6 mA mgPd−1 and an onset potential of −650 mV versus Ag/AgCl reference electrode toward EOR. The catalytic improvements can be attributed to synergetic effects between the immobilized Pd NPs and the functionalities on the carbon nanotube–hydroxyapatite substrate.

Palladium Nanoparticles Supported on B‐Doped Carbon Nanocage as Electrocatalyst toward Ethanol Oxidation Reaction

“…[8][9] Therefore, the development of other novel catalysts with high electrocatalytic activity and stability for ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) has aroused sustained attentions. [17][18][19][20][21] For palladium based catalysts, it is imperative to explore other electrocatalyst carriers with specific structure and component characteristic. [10][11][12][13][14][15][16] The stabilities and performance to EOR principally relay on carriers and active components of electrocatalysts.…”

“…[10][11][12][13][14][15][16] The stabilities and performance to EOR principally relay on carriers and active components of electrocatalysts. [17][18][19][20][21] For palladium based catalysts, it is imperative to explore other electrocatalyst carriers with specific structure and component characteristic.…”