Lignin-derived hierarchical porous carbon supported Pd nanoparticles as an efficient electrocatalyst for ethanol oxidation

Herein, lignin derived hierarchical porous carbon (LHPC) supported Pd nanoparticles (Pd/LHPC) were synthesized and developed as advanced electrocatalysts for ethanol oxidation. In the Pd/LHPC, the special hierarchical porous carbon with the interconnected micropores and mesopores uniformly distribute on the surface and walls of macropores can provide facile transport for electroactive species and more reaction available surface. The Pd/LHPC exhibits larger specific electrochemically active surface area, higher electrocatalytic activity and better stability toward the oxidation of ethanol than the black carbon (Vulcan XC-72) supported Pd (Pd/XC-72) and commercial Pd/C electrocatalysts. The strategy reported will open a new road to effectively use industrial waste to synthesize advanced carbon material for efficient electrocatalysts and other electrochemical energy-conversion devices.