A novel sputtered Pd mesh architecture as an advanced electrocatalyst for highly efficient hydrogen production

• Published in: Journal of power sources 2016-07, Vol.321, p.248-256
• Main Authors: de Lucas-Consuegra, Antonio, de la Osa, Ana R., Calcerrada, Ana B., Linares, José J., Horwat, David
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: AEM; Anodic; Architecture; Carbon; Electrocatalysts; Electrochemical reforming; Electrolysis; Ethanol; Ethyl alcohol; Hydrogen production; Palladium; Pd sputtering
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2016.05.004

This study reports the preparation, characterization and testing of a sputtered Pd mesh-like anode as an advanced electrocatalyst for H2 production from alkaline ethanol solutions in an Alkaline Membrane Electrolyzer (AEM). Pd anodic catalyst is prepared by magnetron sputtering technique onto a microfiber carbon paper support. Scanning Electron Microscopy images reveal that the used preparation technique enables to cover the surface of the carbon microfibers exposed to the Pd target, leading to a continuous network that also maintains part of the original carbon paper macroporosity. Such novel anodic architecture (organic binder free) presents an excellent electro-chemical performance, with a maximum current density of 700 mA cm−2 at 1.3 V, and, concomitantly, a large H2 production rate with low energy requirement compared to water electrolysis. Potassium hydroxide emerges as the best electrolyte, whereas temperature exerts the expected promotional effect up to 90 °C. On the other hand, a 1 mol L−1 ethanol solution is enough to guarantee an efficient fuel supply without any mass transfer limitation. The proposed system also demonstrates to remain stable over 150 h of operation along five consecutives cycles, producing highly pure H2 (99.999%) at the cathode and potassium acetate as the main anodic product. [Display omitted] •AEM electrochemical reforming of ethanol was developed for pure H2 production.•A novel sputtered Pd mesh-like anode was used as an advanced electrocatalyst.•Large H2 production rates were obtained with low energy requirement.•The system was stable for long working times.•Potassium acetate was the main anodic product.