A novel structural design of CNx-Fe3O4 as support to immobilize Pd for catalytic oxidation of formic acid

A new kind of carbon nitride (CNx)-Fe3O4 (Fe3O4-CNx) hybridized composition is fabricated by carbonizing polypyrrole-Fe3O4 hybridized precursor at 800 °C. Well-dispersed Pd nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution of 7–11 nm could be very easily prepared on the coraline-like CNx-Fe3O4. Due to the synergetic effect between the N-atom, Pd-atom and Fe3O4 species, the corresponding Pd/Fe3O4-CNx catalyst exhibits higher activity and better stability for the electrochemical oxidation of formic acid than either commercial Pd/C or Pt/C catalyst.

The Fe3O4-CNx provided a novel support for Pd, with good durability and catalytic activity for formic acid oxidation.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► CNx modified Fe3O4 is prepared by a simple method.
► Fe3O4-CNx is a novel support for Pd towards oxidation of formic acid.
► Pd/Fe3O4-CNx has good durability and catalytic activity for oxidation of formic acid.