A bio-inspired O2 sensitive nickel catalyst dispersed in a hydrophobic and redox-silent polymer matrix
shows enhanced stability for catalytic H2 oxidation as well as O2 tolerance. A simple but efficient
electrode design separates the catalyst into two different reaction layers to promote different reactivity
on the catalyst. (1) close to the electrode surface, the catalyst can directly exchange electrons with the
electrode and generate current from H2 oxidation; and (2) at the outer film boundary, the electrolyte
exposed layer is electrically isolated from the electrode, which enables the H2 reduced Ni-complex to
convert O2 to H2O and thus provides protection to the O2-sensitive inner reaction layer. This strategy
solves one of the biggest limitations of these otherwise outstanding catalysts and could be used to
protect other similar catalysts whose wider application is currently limited by sensitivity towards oxygen.
Revised: March 6, 2018 |
Published: February 28, 2018