Cost-effective, high-performance Ni3Sn4 electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation reaction in acidic environments

Danil W. Boukhvalov, Gianluca D’Olimpio, Junzhe Liu, Corneliu Ghica, Marian Cosmin Istrate, Chia Nung Kuo, Grazia Giuseppina Politano, Chin Shan Lue, Piero Torelli, Lixue Zhang, Antonio Politano

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Methanol (CH3OH) oxidation offers a promising avenue for transitioning to clean energy, particularly in the field of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). However, the development of efficient and cost-effective catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) remains a critical challenge. Herein, we report the exceptional electrocatalytic activity and stability of Ni3Sn4 toward MOR in acidic media, achieving a performance comparable to that of commercial Pt/C catalysts. Our catalyst design incorporates Earth-abundant Ni and Sn elements, resulting in a material that is 1800 times more cost-effective than Pt/C. Density functional theory (DFT) modeling substantiates our experimental findings, shedding light on the favorable reaction mechanisms and kinetics on the Ni3Sn4 surface. Additionally, the as-synthesized Ni3Sn4 electrocatalyst demonstrates commendable durability, maintaining its electrocatalytic activity even after prolonged exposure to harsh acidic conditions.

Original languageEnglish
JournalChemical Communications
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2023

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Catalysis
  • Ceramics and Composites
  • General Chemistry
  • Surfaces, Coatings and Films
  • Metals and Alloys
  • Materials Chemistry

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