Carbonized 1H-benzotriazole modified carbon depositing Pd for ethanol electrooxidation

Abstract

Carbonized 1H-benzotriazole modified carbon (BTA-MC) is prepared, then Pd nanoparticles are deposited on to it (Pd/BTA-MC). The BTA modification leads to good Pd dispersion and strengthened interaction between Pd and BTA-MC, so the prepared Pd/BTA-MC catalyst has an enhanced electrochemical performance towards ethanol oxidation in alkaline media. Compared to a conventional Pd/C catalyst, the Pd/BTA-MC catalyst exhibits a larger electrochemically active surface area, higher electrocatalytic activity and better poison-tolerance, as well as a lower apparent activation energy. It would be a promising candidate for direct ethanol fuel cells.