Rhodium-decorated palladium nanocubes supported on Ni(OH)2 nanosheets/C for enhanced ethanol oxidation

This study investigates the improvement of Palladium (Pd)-based nanocatalysts for ethanol oxidation in alkaline solutions, a process often hindered by the poisoning of the catalyst's surface. We synthesise Pd nanocubes and Rhodium (Rh)-decorated Pd nanocubes, both supported by a composite of nickel hydroxide nanosheets and carbon (Ni(OH)2/C). The developed Pd nanocatalysts possess a nanocubic morphology with smaller sizes compared to Pd/C, alongside additional nanostructures like nanorods X-ray absorption near-edge structure and extended X-ray absorption fine structure analyses suggest that Rh decoration on Pd nanocubes prevents Pd oxidation, with Rh itself being oxidised. The electrocatalytic performance of the Rh/Pd/Ni(OH)2/C hybrid catalyst displays a notable enhancement, attributed to the combined effects of the exposed Pd (100) crystal surfaces, the addition of oxygenated species through the Ni(OH)2 component, and the deliberate addition of Rh. Comparative assessments reveal that this composite surpasses Pd/C and Pd/C nanocubes, achieving specific activities that are approximately 11.6 and 3.5 times greater, respectively. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy data and chronoamperometric studies confirm superior ethanol oxidation efficiency and improved catalytic stability. These findings highlight the utility of Rh/Pd/Ni(OH)2/C nanocubes in direct ethanol fuel cells, providing promising pathways for enhancing fuel cell technologies.