Direct synthesis of palladium nanoparticles on Mn3O4 modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes: A highly active catalyst for methanol electro-oxidation in alkaline media

A facile preparation route for Pd electrocatalyst (Pd-Mn3O4/MWCNTs) composed of similar to 3.5 nm Pd nanoparticles homogeneously anchored on Mn3O4 modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Mn3O4/MWCNTs) is reported. The morphology, component and crystallinity of the catalyst were characterized by means of different techniques. The electrochemical behavior of the Pd-Mn3O4/MWCNT composites was examined by cyclic voltammetry toward methanol electro-oxidation in alkaline media. Pd nanoparticles binding on the surface of the Mn3O4/MWCNTs exhibited improved electrocatalytic activity and anti-COads species poisoned ability compared to Pd/MWCNTs and Pd/XC-72 (Pd/commercial Vulcan XC-72 carbon black). This improved performance of the as-prepared electrocatalyst is attributed to the synergistic effect of Mn3O4 nanoparticles and MWCNTs. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.