Catalyst durability in electrocatalytic H₂O₂ production: key factors and challenges

Author(s)

Choi, Ji Sik ; Fortunato, Guilherme V. ; Jung, Daniele C. ; Lourenco, Julio C. ; Lanza, Marcos R. V. ; Ledendecker, Marc

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: NANOSCALE HORIZONS; v. 9, n. 8, p. 12-pg., 2024-05-29.

Abstract

On-demand electrocatalytic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production is a significant technological advancement that offers a promising alternative to the traditional anthraquinone process. This approach leverages electrocatalysts for the selective reduction of oxygen through a two-electron transfer mechanism (ORR-2e-), holding great promise for delivering a sustainable and economically efficient means of H2O2 production. However, the harsh operating conditions during the electrochemical H2O2 production lead to the degradation of both structural integrity and catalytic efficacy in these materials. Here, we systematically examine the design strategies and materials typically utilized in the electroproduction of H2O2 in acidic environments. We delve into the prevalent reactor conditions and scrutinize the factors contributing to catalyst deactivation. Additionally, we propose standardised benchmarking protocols aimed at evaluating catalyst stability under such rigorous conditions. To this end, we advocate for the adoption of three distinct accelerated stress tests to comprehensively assess catalyst performance and durability. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/12053-8 - Use of sewage treatment sludge in the synthesis of active carbon modified with nanostructured oxides (Ce, Nb, Ta, and Pd ) and its application in the electrochemical generation of hydrogen peroxide
• Grantee: Julio César Lourenço
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 23/04230-2 - Boosting electrochemical H2O2 generation from waste-derived activated carbon using Pd and Pt catalyst modification
• Grantee: Julio César Lourenço
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• FAPESP's process: 17/10118-0 - Study and application of electrochemical technology for the analysis and degradation of endocrine interferents: materials, sensors, processes and scientific dissemination
• Grantee: Marcos Roberto de Vasconcelos Lanza
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 19/04421-7 - Production and characterization of metal-graphene or graphene oxide nanocomposites for the electrocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide: Application to the degradation of endocrine disrupting chemicals by electrochemical advanced oxidation processes
• Grantee: Guilherme Vilalba Fortunato
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 21/14194-8 - Production and characterization of metal-graphene or graphene oxide nanocomposites for the electrocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide: application to the degradation of endocrine disrupting chemicals by electrochemical advanced oxidation processes
• Grantee: Guilherme Vilalba Fortunato
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor