How does the Au/CuO NWs catalyst enhance benzyl alcohol electrooxidation coupled with hydrogen evolution?
Label:chem
Topic
Benzyl alcohol (PhCH2OH) is an attractive feedstock for electrooxidation to produce benzoic acid (PhCOOH), a high-value chemical. However, the limited adsorption of benzyl alcohol on the catalyst surface is a key bottleneck. The study investigates a field-induced enrichment strategy using a nanostructured cooperative catalyst composed of Au nanoparticles supported on copper oxide nanowires (Au/CuO NWs) to enhance benzyl alcohol electrooxidation coupled with hydrogen evolution.
From: "Field-induced reactant enrichment enhances benzyl alcohol electrooxidation coupled with hydrogen evolution", Chem. Sci., 2025,16, 14646-14654
Answer
The Au/CuO NWs catalyst enhances benzyl alcohol electrooxidation by inducing stronger local electric fields due to its nanowire morphology. This promotes the interfacial enrichment of benzyl alkoxide and the formation of OH* species, thereby improving the overall performance. The catalyst achieved an impressive current density of 734 mA cm−2 at 1.5 V vs. RHE, with a benzyl alcohol oxidation rate of 4.74 mmol cm−2 h−1 and a 91% faradaic efficiency for benzoic acid production.
Return to Home
Chemical List
Knowledge you may be interested in