Article
Chemistry, Physical
Victor S. Pinheiro, Felipe M. Souza, Tuani C. Gentil, Luanna S. Parreira, Bruno L. Batista, Mauro C. Santos
Summary: This study synthesized and evaluated electrocatalytic activity of hybrid electrocatalysts based on Pd nanoparticles and CeO2 nanorods for use in alkaline direct ethanol fuel cells. The hybrid electrocatalysts showed promising results with high OCV, maximum current, and power densities, indicating potential for application in ADEFC.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Sandile S. Gwebu, Cyril T. Selepe, Thabo Matthews, Memory Zikhali, Tebogo A. Mashola, Siyabonga P. Mbokazi, Thobeka S. Makhunga, Nobanathi W. Maxakato
Summary: Tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3) was used as a stable secondary support and cocatalyst, and functionalized carbon nanodots were blended with WO3 nanoparticles to form a composite support for Pd nanoparticles. The synthesized Pd/fCNDs-WO3 electrocatalysts showed remarkable catalytic activity for methanol and ethanol oxidation. The presence of WO3 in the Pd/fCNDs electrocatalyst improved the kinetics, tolerance to poisoning, and long-term durability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Guixian Li, Shoudeng Wang, Hongwei Li, Peng Guo, Yanru Li, Dong Ji, Xinhong Zhao
Summary: Palladium-copper alloy nanostructured catalysts loaded on carbon support have shown high activity and stability in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells. This study presents the synthesis and characterization of PdxCuy/XC-72 nanoalloy catalysts, with different ratios of Pd and Cu, using a one-step chemical reduction method. The catalysts were characterized using various analytical techniques, and the results indicate that Pd3Cu2/XC-72 catalysts exhibit superior electronic structure, leading to higher mass activity enhancement and improved durability for methanol oxidation reaction.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Le Li, Hongliang Xu, Qianyi Zhu, Xiangjun Meng, Jixing Xu, Meijun Han
Summary: This article presents a comprehensive review on the recent progress of interstitial hydrogen atom modified Pd-based nanocatalysts for energy-related electrocatalytic reactions. It discusses the synthesis strategies and mechanisms of Pd-based hydrides, and emphasizes the role of H intercalation in tailoring their physicochemical and electrochemical properties. The widespread application of Pd-based hydrides for electrocatalytic reactions and the future development of more efficient Pd-based hydrides are also discussed.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Cyril Tlou Selepe, Sandile Surprise Gwebu, Thabo Matthews, Tebogo Abigail Mashola, Ludwe Luther Sikeyi, Memory Zikhali, Siyabonga Patrick Mbokazi, Thobeka Sipho Makhunga, Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: The physicochemical characteristics of Pd and Pd-Sn electro-catalysts supported by carbon nanofibers prepared by chemical reduction method were studied, and their catalytic activity towards alcohol electro-oxidation was evaluated. The Pd-Sn/CNFs electro-catalyst exhibited better activity than Pd/CNFs and Pd/C electro-catalysts, with the addition of Sn promoting oxidation reactions and improving performance.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yanan Zhang, Jiangbo Wang, Mensah Alfred, Pengfei Lv, Fenglin Huang, Yibing Cai, Hui Qiao, Qufu Wei
Summary: This article provides a systematic summary of the recent advances in micro-nanofiber-derived functional materials for zinc-air batteries (ZABs), highlighting their roles in accelerating charge and discharge reactions, increasing service life, and enhancing flexibility.
ENERGY STORAGE MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ruilin He, Pan Yang, Qingsong Huang, Lijun Yang
Summary: In this study, Ru-doped mesoporous carbon nanofibers (Ru-mCNFs) electrocatalysts were prepared and the effects of metal contents on their performance were investigated. With a Ru content of 1.26%, Ru-mCNFs exhibited excellent electrocatalytic properties under alkaline conditions, comparable to a commercial Pt/C electrocatalyst with 20% loading. This work provides a promising solution for large-scale hydrogen production with low loading of noble catalysts.
CHEMICAL PHYSICS LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Haochuan Zhang, Jingru Luo, Miao Qi, Shiru Lin, Qi Dong, Haoyi Li, Nicholas Dulock, Christopher Povinelli, Nicholas Wong, Wei Fan, Junwei Lucas Bao, Dunwei Wang
Summary: In this research, stable SEI formation and reversible Li stripping/plating were achieved by introducing oxygen into triethyl phosphate. The method was validated in a nonflammable electrolyte and demonstrated control over dendrite formation.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Xiayue Fan, Haozhi Wang, Xiaorui Liu, Jie Liu, Naiqin Zhao, Cheng Zhong, Wenbin Hu, Jun Lu
Summary: Flexible aqueous zinc-air batteries (FAZABs) with quasi-solid-state gel polymer electrolytes (QSGPEs) containing sulfonate functionalized nanocomposites exhibit high ionic conductivity, alkali tolerance, and zinc anode stability. The FAZAB shows a long cycling life of 450 hours, making it suitable for powering wearable electronics.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lijun Zhou, Fan Yang, Siqi Zeng, Xingyuan Gao, Xiaoqing Liu, Xianshuo Cao, Peng Yu, Xihong Lu
Summary: Electrochemically depositing Zn onto the Cu-Zn alloy surface can enhance Zn adsorption and promote homogeneous Zn nucleation, leading to highly reversible Zn plating/stripping chemistry. The Cu-Zn alloy's intrinsic inert nature towards the hydrogen evolution reaction and high dezincification potential can effectively mitigate hydrogen evolution and Zn corrosion in aqueous electrolyte. Symmetric cells with CZ-Zn electrodes exhibit outstanding cycling life in both alkaline and neutral electrolytes, surpassing pristine Zn electrodes.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Victor S. Pinheiro, Felipe M. Souza, Tuani C. Gentil, Aline N. Nascimento, Luanna S. Parreira, Mirela Sairre, Bruno L. Batista, Mauro C. Santos
Summary: Fuel cells are important devices for energy conversion, but low efficiency in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a challenge. This study synthesized hybrid electrocatalysts and found that a ternary hybrid catalyst exhibited higher performance as an alkaline direct ethanol fuel cells (ADEFCs) cathode.
JOURNAL OF ALLOYS AND COMPOUNDS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Bin Yao, Jianqi Ye, Chen Wang, Wenjing Mu, Fei Liu, Dan Wen
Summary: In this work, Pd-CoOx aerogels were synthesized simply and quickly by in situ electrochemical reduction strategy without additional organic ligands. Introducing Co to form composite aerogels significantly improved the catalytic performance of Pd. The optimized Pd-3-(CoOx)(1) aerogel exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activities in alcohol oxidations.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
J. Maya-Cornejo, J. A. Diaz-Real, Jose Luis Lopez-Miranda, Lorena Alvarez-Contreras, Rodrigo Esparza, Noe Arjona, Miriam Estevez
Summary: In this study, Cu@Pd core-shell nanoparticles were synthesized by optimizing the reduction of Cu2+ to Cu-0 as cores and increasing the amount of Pd precursor. The Cu@Pd IV sample exhibited the best core@shell structure and highest electrocatalytic activity for ethanol oxidation reaction. This sample also showed a significantly lower oxidation peak potential and higher current density compared to the reference Pd/C nanomaterial.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yamin Zhang, Yifan Zhang, Anmol Mathur, Sarah Ben-Yoseph, Song Xia, Yutong Wu, Nian Liu
Summary: Rechargeable aqueous zinc-air batteries have high theoretical volumetric energy density and low cost, but suffer from severe hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on zinc anodes. The study reveals that the testing device significantly affects HER in alkaline electrolytes. A new cell configuration is designed to minimize HER and achieve higher Coulombic efficiency and longer cycling life than stainless-steel coin cells.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hojat Veisi, Mozhgan Pirhayati, Pourya Mohammadi, Taiebeh Tamoradi, Saba Hemmati, Bikash Karmakar
Summary: The synthesis and applications of magnetic nanostructures in nanocatalysis have gained increasing attention. Magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) functionalized catalysts have been successfully used in important reactions such as Suzuki-Miyaura and Heck couplings. This review focuses on the recent advances in modified magnetic nanocomposites and the synthetic processes commonly employed in catalytic applications.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Abolanle S. Adekunle, Olayemi J. Fakayode, Bhekie B. Mamba, Thabo T. I. Nkambule
Summary: This study reports a method for the determination of humic acid and sodium alginate using glassy carbon electrodes modified with iron oxide and copper oxide nanoparticles. The modified electrodes showed higher current responses and lower charge transfer resistance compared to the bare electrode. The developed sensors can be used for detection and monitoring of humic acid and sodium alginate in water samples.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ludwe L. Sikeyi, Themba D. Ntuli, Thomas H. Mongwe, Nobanathi W. Maxakato, Emanuela Carleschi, Bryan P. Doyle, Neil J. Coville, Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng
Summary: This study synthesized three types of nano onions and prepared Pd/CNO electrocatalysts using different methods. The N-CNO and Pd/N-CNO catalysts showed high current density and long-term stability in alkaline medium.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Katlego E. Raseruthe, Thabo Matthews, Sandile S. Gwebu, Kriveshni Pillay, Nobanathi W. Maxakato
Summary: Palladium-based catalysts supported on carbon nanotubes and carbon nanodots have shown promising potential in efficiently oxidizing ethylene glycol, with Pd/CNT catalyst demonstrating greater stability and resistance to poisoning by carbon monoxide intermediates during the oxidation process.
MATERIALS RESEARCH EXPRESS
(2021)
Article
Electrochemistry
Sandile Surprise Gwebu, Thabo Matthews, Wendy Nobanathi Maxakato
Summary: In this study, platinum nanoparticles supported on a carbon nanodots-titania composite were synthesized, exhibiting superior electroactivity and anti-poisoning properties for alcohol electrooxidation. The results of this study are of great importance for the development of durable fuel cell catalysts.
JOURNAL OF ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY CONVERSION AND STORAGE
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: This study presents recent advancements in the application of porous metal oxide electrocatalysts for energy conversion technologies. It discusses the evolution of porous material sciences, the importance of oxides in electrocatalysis, and the synthesis and analysis techniques for porous metal oxides. Additionally, it summarizes the fundamental concepts, mechanisms, performances, challenges, and prospects of different energy conversion technologies, emphasizing the critical role of oxygen defects.
COORDINATION CHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mujeeb Adeyemi Balogun, Abdulraheem Okehi Anumah, Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: Groundwater in the southwestern region of Nigeria, which is the major source of drinking water, has been heavily polluted due to anthropogenic activities. This study thoroughly examines the impacts of these activities on groundwater quality and proposes control measures. It also emphasizes the importance of improving groundwater assessment techniques and regularly monitoring groundwater quality in Nigeria.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Cyril Tlou Selepe, Sandile Surprise Gwebu, Thabo Matthews, Tebogo Abigail Mashola, Ludwe Luther Sikeyi, Memory Zikhali, Siyabonga Patrick Mbokazi, Thobeka Sipho Makhunga, Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: The physicochemical characteristics of Pd and Pd-Sn electro-catalysts supported by carbon nanofibers prepared by chemical reduction method were studied, and their catalytic activity towards alcohol electro-oxidation was evaluated. The Pd-Sn/CNFs electro-catalyst exhibited better activity than Pd/CNFs and Pd/C electro-catalysts, with the addition of Sn promoting oxidation reactions and improving performance.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: This study presents recent advancements on the N-doped carbon-based electrocatalysts for CO2RR. It highlights the unique properties of N-doped carbon-based electrocatalysts and discusses the formation of various products. The roles of N-functionalities in enhancing electrocatalytic activity and selectivity are explained. Mechanistic aspects and technoeconomic analysis are also discussed.
MATERIALS TODAY CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: The increasing interest in addressing the rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and associated pollution has attracted global attention. Photocatalytic CO2 reduction presents a promising alternative to mitigate the environmental impact of CO2 emissions. Strategies for enhancing efficiency and performance of 2D graphitic carbon nitride for CO2 reduction are discussed, along with gaps in existing literature and potential future breakthroughs.
MATERIALS TODAY CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Thabo Matthews, Tebogo Abigail Mashola, Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Kudzai Mugadza, Colani Thembinkosi Fakude, Oyeladun Rhoda Adegoke, Abolanle Saheed Adekunle, Patrick Ndungu, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: Due to environmental issues, sustainable energy conversion technologies have become crucial for the future of energy. Electrocatalytic activities play a key role in driving the functionality of these technologies, and the development of single-atom catalysts (SACs) has been a recent trend in the pursuit of low-cost and highly efficient electrocatalysts.
COORDINATION CHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Analytical
Tarekegn Heliso Dolla, Thabo Matthews, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato, Patrick Ndungu, Tiziano Montini
Summary: Ammonia production through electrocatalytic and photocatalytic N2 fixation approaches has attracted much attention due to their sustainability and use of renewable energy. However, the industrial requirements are not met due to poor catalytic activity and efficiency. Therefore, the development of rationally designed and highly efficient catalysts is essential. This review provides insights into recent progress in transition metal sulfide-based electrocatalysts and photocatalysts for nitrogen fixation to ammonia under ambient conditions, as well as discussions on future prospects in the rational design of efficient metal sulfide-based catalysts for artificial N2 fixation.
JOURNAL OF ELECTROANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Sandile S. Gwebu, Cyril T. Selepe, Thabo Matthews, Memory Zikhali, Tebogo A. Mashola, Siyabonga P. Mbokazi, Thobeka S. Makhunga, Nobanathi W. Maxakato
Summary: Tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3) was used as a stable secondary support and cocatalyst, and functionalized carbon nanodots were blended with WO3 nanoparticles to form a composite support for Pd nanoparticles. The synthesized Pd/fCNDs-WO3 electrocatalysts showed remarkable catalytic activity for methanol and ethanol oxidation. The presence of WO3 in the Pd/fCNDs electrocatalyst improved the kinetics, tolerance to poisoning, and long-term durability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Thabo Matthews, Makhaokane Paulina Chabalala, Siyabonga Patrick Mbokazi, Tarekegn Heliso Dolla, Kudzai Mugadza, Tebogo Abigail Mashola, Memory Zikhali, Surprise Sandile Gwebu, Emanuela Carleschi, Bryan Patrick Doyle, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: Pd nanoparticles supported on V2O5 immobilized on functionalized carbon showed significantly enhanced catalytic activity for glycerol oxidation reaction. The best performance was achieved with a loading of 5% Pd and 30% V2O5, exhibiting high activity, negative onset potential, and good stability and durability.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kayode Adesina Adegoke, Isah Adewale Bello, Olugbenga Solomon Bello, Mujeeb Adeyemi Balogun, Nobanathi Wendy Maxakato
Summary: Chemical modification of cellulose fibre is an efficient way to improve dye uptake and dyeability properties. This study investigated the effects of modifying agents on the dye fastness of cotton fabric and identified the optimal dyeing conditions.
SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN
(2022)
