Development of carbon/non-noble metal based electrocatalysts for hydrogen peroxide generation in environmental applications

• Grant number: 23/01425-7
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: July 01, 2023
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Agreement: CNPq
• Principal Investigator: Marcos Roberto de Vasconcelos Lanza
• Grantee: Marcos Roberto de Vasconcelos Lanza
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química de São Carlos (IQSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/10118-0 - Study and application of electrochemical technology for the analysis and degradation of endocrine interferents: materials, sensors, processes and scientific dissemination, AP.TEM
• Associated scholarship(s): 23/10772-2 - Development of carbon/non-noble metal based electrocatalysts for hydrogen peroxide generation in environmental applications, BP.JD

Abstract

The rampant population growth coupled with the widespread use of new pharmaceutical technologies and the careless use of pesticides and industrial waste, stemming from a lack of environmental consciousness, has inflicted severe harm to the environment. In light of this situation, it is imperative to find ways to mitigate the damage that has already been done, and electrochemical technologies based on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to break down endocrine-disrupting emerging pollutants has proven to be an effective solution among the available technologies. The production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and economical manner is crucial for the rapid expansion of its consumption in various industries, including the chemical, medical, and effluent treatment industries. The electrocatalytic production method using the selective oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) provides a sustainable means of producing H2O2 from O2. The key and innovative aspect of this technology lies in the need for efficient electrocatalysts that facilitate the ORR through a two-electron (2e-) process. The persistent challenge of developing catalytic materials with low or zero noble metal content, which are highly active, selective, and resistant for long-term use, remains a significant obstacle for the commercial and industrial-scale electroproduction of H2O2. In this sense, we intend to develop efficient and unprecedented electrochemical catalysts and technological materials capable of generating a patent and putting the State of São Paulo in an innovative front in the national and international scenario. (AU)