PdNi-coated manganite nanorods as catalyst for electrooxidation of methanol in alkaline medium

Palladium and Nickel (PdNi) were coated on the manganite nanorods (MN) by a in situ reduction method. The prepared nanocatalyst was characterized by powder X-ray diffractrogram (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS) and electrochemical studies. The XRD patterns and EDS measurements confirm the formation of nanocrystalline PdNi on the surface of the MN. This nanocatalyst was tested for the electrooxidation of methanol in alkaline medium. The PdNi/MN catalyst modified electrode shows improved current response when compared with Pd/MN and Pd/C modified electrodes. The forward oxidation potential was shifted negative and the backward oxidation current was minimized compared with Pd/C. The electrooxidation of methanol was studied at various concentrations of KOH and methanol. The methanol electrooxidation exhibits highest current response for 9 M KOH/6 M CH3OH solution. The presence of MN act as excellent support material and help in the electrocatalytic activity of PdNi.