Preparation of Pd/MnO2-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for methanol electro-oxidation in alkaline media

Manganese dioxide modified reduced graphene oxide supported Pd nanoparticles (Pd/MnO2-RGO) were prepared facilely by a chemical approach. The as-prepared materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The electrocatalytic behavior of the Pd/MnO2-RGO for methanol oxidation was studied using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The results indicate that the Pd/MnO2-RGO nanocomposites exhibit higher catalytic activity and better stability than Pd/RGO.

► Pd/MnO2-RGO was firstly used for methanol oxidation in alkaline media.
► The If of Pd/MnO2-RGO is much higher than that of the Pd/RGO.
► The If/Ib on Pd/MnO2-RGO is 4 times as large as that on Pd/RGO.
► Pd/MnO2-RGO shows superior electrocatalytic activity and high stability.