Work

The Role of Alkali Metal Ions in Cooperative Electrocatalysis by Bifunctional Co−Mn‐Mixed Phosphates

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Developing cost‐effective, non‐precious metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is crucial for advancing sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies, including zinc‐air batteries, fuel cells, and water electrolyzers. This study presents a one‐pot synthesis of cobalt‐manganese mixed phosphates as effective bifunctional electrocatalysts for both ORR and OER. Among the catalysts tested, Na−Co−Mn−P [NaCo1.5Mn1.5(HPO4)2(PO4)] exhibited the highest catalytic activity, with a minimal ΔE of 0.86 V, indicating superior performance. The incorporation of alkali metals and the synergistic effects of metal and phosphate components enhance conductivity, electrochemical surface area, and mixed valency of transition metals, contributing to improved electrocatalytic activity. This work highlights a straightforward synthesis method and the beneficial role of metal‐phosphate synergy in oxygen electrocatalysis.

Source: Chemistry - An Asian Journal

DOI: 10.1002/asia.202401177

Authors: Savi Chaudhary, Ramaswamy Murugavel

Institution: Indian Institute of Technology Bombay

Language: English

Topic: Electrocatalysts for Energy Conversion

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Montana Institute on Ecosystems, Science and Engineering Research Board