A Pd nanoparticle anchored on PEDOT-modified $$\hbox {MnO}_{2}$$ nanostructure as a highly stable and efficient cathode catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract

Synthesized by a facile scalable method, a highly stable Pd nanoparticles anchored on a poly 3,4-ethoxylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT) modified $$\hbox {MnO}_{2}$$ nanostructure ( $$\hbox {Pd@PEDOT-MnO}_{2}$$ ), was obtained, characterized physically and explored electrochemically as a catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction. X-ray power diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the Pd nanoparticles well-dispersed on the PEDOT modified- $$\hbox {MnO}_{2}$$ . Electrochemical experiments show almost comparable catalytic activity, but better stability of $$\hbox {Pd@PEDOT-MnO}_{2}$$ than that of commercial Pt/C. Therefore, it is thus persuasive that $$\hbox {Pd@PEDOT-MnO}_{2}$$ is a promising alternative to commercial Pt/C considering both the price and performance. This work studies on a $$\hbox {Pd@PEDOT-MnO}_{2}$$ electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction. The catalytic kinetic behavior of the catalyst is examined in alkaline by cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry. Results show that the activity of the $$\hbox {Pd@PEDOT-MnO}_{2}$$ is comparable to that of commercial Pt/C, but the stability is better than that of later.