Catalytic Activity of Copper Electrodes Coated with Nickel Foam, Iron and Cobalt Oxides and Hydroxides in Highly Alkaline Alcoholic Media

Abstract

The catalytic activity of copper electrodes coated with nickel foam and metal oxides and hydroxides in highly alkaline alcoholic media was investigated. It has been found that the most promising catalyst is one coated with iron and cobalt oxides. The presence of cobalt oxides in nickel foam leads to easier oxidation of ethanol and reduction of oxygen. At the same overvoltage, in the alcohol layer at a potential of 100 mV, the current density on nickel foam with cobalt oxides is at least 2 times higher. In the salt layer, the process of releasing oxygen on nickel foam with cobalt oxides begins at potentials 250 mV more negative than on pure nickel foam. The use of a copper support as a support for the catalyst is justified due to its good electrical.