Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide-nickel nanocomposites for urea electrolysis

Urea has been demonstrated as a stable, non-toxic, and non-flammable hydrogen carrier for long-term sustainable energy supply. Electrocatalytic oxidation using nickel catalysts has been used as an effective approach for hydrogen production via urea electrolysis. In this work, graphene-nickel nanocomposites were synthesized through one-step electrochemical reduction process and developed as electrocatalysts for hydrogen production through urea electro-oxidation. The graphene-nickel nanocomposites diminished the surface blockage effect observed with other catalysts during the oxidation of urea, and enhanced the current density of this reaction. The improved electrochemical performance of the urea electrolysis process using graphene-nickel nanocomposites as the electrocatalysts shows potential for future applications in hydrogen production and fuel cells. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.