Transition metal catalysts on nitrogen and carbon structures for hydrogen production through salt water electrolysis

Author(s)

Camila Andrea Delgadillo Camargo

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/BT)
• Defense date: 2021-06-30

Examining board members

Thiago Lopes; Joelma Perez; Margarida Juri Saeki

• Advisor: Thiago Lopes

Abstract

When considering hydrogen production by electrolysis the possibility of water stress in some populations and scarcity of precious metals for catalyst production are seen as future barriers. The use of non-precious metal catalysts allied to direct saltwater splitting reduce the pressure on scarce resources. Here, four Metal-Nitrogen-Carbon (M-N-C) catalysts were synthesized with metal salts of Co, Fe, Ni and FeNi, with 1,5-diaminonhaptalene as N-C source. These catalysts were compared with a blank N-C without metal and a Pt/C commercial catalyst. Tests were conducted in electrolyte solution 0,5M of H2SO4 and 0,5 M of NaCl. Results showed limited activity towards Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) and Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) compared with Pt/C and other non-precious metal catalysts. Nevertheless, they point out trends for better catalyst synthesis as improved activity of bimetallic catalyst and the use of Co in both, acidic and saline neutral electrolyte and as bifunctional catalyst. Further studies are necessary to test specific active site activity. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/15327-9 - Elucidating the role of transition metals on the formation of active sites on sustainable electrocatalysts
• Grantee: Camila Andrea Delgadillo Camargo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master