Novel and high electrocatalytic activity aerogel Pd-TM (TM=Co, Ni, Fe)

In the present research work, unsupported Pd-TM aerogel catalysts are prepared by an ultrafast synthesis by means of a combination of microwave heating and lyophilization. These novel aerogels are synthesized to explore the effect of transition metals on a Pd aerogel matrix in order to reduce the dependence on noble metals and increase its electrocatalytic properties for different electrochemical reactions. Physicochemical characterization of Pd-TM aerogels reveals a successful combination of high specific surface area, electrochemical surface area, and specific oxidation states. The combination of these properties in Pd-TM aerogels enhances the electrocatalytic activity towards ethanol electrooxidation compared to bare Pd aerogels. Among all the Pd-TM, PdNi aerogel presents the highest current per unit mass with 117 mA/mg, being a clear improvement compared to the Pd aerogel (48 mA/mg).