Applicable anode based on Co3O4–SrCO3 heterostructure nanorods-incorporated CNFs with low-onset potential for DUFCs

Abstract

Besides the high-current density, lower onset potential of urea electrooxidation is key parameter which influences the direct urea fuel cell performance. In the present article, low-onset potential has been reported for nickel-free (NF) electrocatalyst in urea electrooxidation. The nickel-free electrocatalyst: Co3O4–SrCO3 heterostructure nanorods-incorporated carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were synthesized by electrospinning technique, followed by calcination of electrospun mat composed of strontium acetate, cobalt acetate, and poly(vinyl alcohol) sol–gel in inert environment at 750 °C. Physiochemical characterizations confirmed the formation of Co3O4–SrCO3 heterostructure nanorods-incorporated CNFs. The electrochemical activity of resultant nickel-free electrocatalyst toward the electrooxidation of urea in alkaline medium is evaluated using cyclic voltammetry measurements (CV). Co3O4–SrCO3 heterostructure nanorods-incorporated CNFs reveals high-current density of 21.33 mA/cm2 at low-fuel concentration. Notably, the low-onset potential has been observed, showing a good application prospect in direct urea fuel cells.