Nickel-Nanoparticles on Doped Graphene: A Highly Active Electrocatalyst for Alcohol and Carbohydrate Electrooxidation for Energy Production

Nickel nanoparticles supported on nitrogen doped graphene (Ni-NGr) as highly efficient electrocatalyst were synthesized via controlled thermal annealing using a mixture of graphene oxide, nickel nitrate and uric acid. The synthesized Ni-NGr catalyst presented excellent electrocatalytic performance for ethanol, glucose and glycerol oxidation, stemming from the synergistic effects of nickel and N-graphene. The electrocatalytic activity was enhanced by the high surface area and nitrogen-based active sites of pyridinic and graphitic N in doped graphene. These N-moieties enhanced the accessibility of active sites while preventing agglomeration of nickel nanoparticles on the doped graphene surface. The hybrid electrocatalyst performances were significantly improved and are suited for electrooxidation application in fuel cells.