High DHA selectivity and low-cost electrode for glycerol oxidation: CuO regulates MnO2 electron density to promote DHA desorption

Abstract

Glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR) is an attractive alternative reaction for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in the electrochemical water splitting and can be used to generate high-value products. However, the development of GOR electrocatalysts with high catalytic activity and low cost is challenging. In this research, a self-supported copper-manganese electrode (MnO2-CuO/CF) was developed, which attains a current density of 10.7 mA cm−2 at a low potential of 1.3 V, while yielding 1,3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA), with a selectivity of 60%. DFT calculations reveal the synergistic effect between CuO and MnO2, enhancing glycerol adsorption. Additionally, the overlap configuration of CuO and MnO2 results in a lower electron density on MnO2, preventing further oxidation and increasing DHA selectivity. By coupling GOR and water electrolysis, the dual output of high value-added organic products and high-purity hydrogen can be realized, which provides a new idea for green hydrogen production and electrochemical synthesis of high value-added chemicals.