Totally atom-economical synthesis of nano/micro structured nickel hydroxide realized by an Ni–O2 fuel cell†
Abstract
The conventional syntheses of nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2) produce a large amount of chemical waste because of low atom-economy reactions employed in the processes. Here, we describe a totally atom-economical synthesis of Ni(OH)2 from nickel metal, water, and oxygen gas (O2) through a newly designed, membrane-free nickel–oxygen (Ni–O2) fuel cell. Electricity is also generated as the by-product. The new synthesis method can greatly reduce the pollution to the environment. The as-prepared Ni(OH)2 has a desired nano/micro structure and exhibits excellent performance as the positive electrode material of nickel–metal hydride batteries.