Phosphate stabilized PdCoP@Nifoam catalyst for self-pressurized H2 production from the electrochemical reforming of ethanol at 150 °C

The electrochemical reforming of ethanol to H-2 is achieved at 150 degrees C in an autoclave electrochemical cell that allows the safe pressurization of the H-2 produced as no O-2 is evolved. The alkaline conditions are very aggressive to catalysts including noble metals like Pt and Pd. We report a highly active ethanol oxidation catalyst (PdCoNifoam) composed of Pd nanoparticles supported on nanostructured Co oxide structures grown on nickel foam. Treatment with phosphorous vapors at high temperature yields a thin coating of phosphate that confers enhanced stability to the electrode operating in an electrolysis cell at 150 degrees C. A combination of scanning electron microscopy (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveal a 3D nano-flake surface with an external layer of phosphates that prevents Pd dissolution. The PdCoP@Ni-foam catalyst was successfully used for ethanol electrochemical reforming at 150 degrees C with self-pressurization of the H-2 produced by the electrochemical reaction. (C) 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.