3D Macroporous Catalysts: Impact of Additives on the Morphology and Performance of Cu/Cu2O Foam Prepared by Dynamic Hydrogen Bubble Template Towards Glycerol Electro-Oxidation

Macroporous Cu/Cu2O foam is electrochemically prepared using the dynamic hydrogen bubble template technique (DHBT) where a highly porous honeycomb-like Cu/Cu2O film is obtained. Various additives such as (NH4)2SO4, KBr, and KCl are added into the deposition bath of Cu to study their effect on the formation of Cu/Cu2O macroporous foam and their impact towards glycerol electro-oxidation reaction (GOR). The morphological structure, surface pore diameter, and electro-active surface area are tuned. The electrochemical activity of the foams is improved towards glycerol electro-oxidation reaction in alkaline medium. The macroporous film prepared in the presence of KBr shows the best catalytic performance due to its high electro-active surface area and surface pore diameter. Material and electrochemical characterization (e.g. SEM, XRD, and CV) techniques were used to relate the observed enhancement to the morphology, composition, and structure of the as synthesized Cu/Cu2O foams.