Corrugated rGO-supported Pd composite on carbon paper for efficient cathode of Mg-H2O2 semi-fuel cell

A corrugated reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-supported Pd composite on carbon paper (Pd/rGO/CP) is prepared via a simple chemical reduction process combined with electrodeposition. The microstructure, morphology, and surface chemical state of the composite and its performance in H2O2 reduction in an acidic medium are investigated. An rGO film with ample corrugated wrinkles coated closely on CP is prepared, and Pd nanoparticles are evenly decorated on the surface of rGO/CP. The Pd/rGO/CP electrode has a low Pd loading and high catalytic performance for H2O2 reduction in acidic media compared to Pd/CP. An excellent mass normalized activity (11,783 A.g(Pd)(-1)) of the Pd/rGO/CP electrode for H2O2 reduction is achieved at 0 V due to the corresponding low Pd loadings. Mg-H2O2 semi-fuel cells using Pd/rGO/CP electrode as the cathode exhibits a peak power density of 215 mW.cm(-2) at 60 degrees C and perfect stability during a 50-h discharge. The rGO interlayer forms a microscopic three- dimensional (3D) structure on the surface of CP, thereby improving the utilization of precious metals and the specific surface area, as well as providing more Pd sites due to the transfer of electrons to Pd. Consequently, the performance of the electrode is improved.