Cu(Pd)-N-C catalysts with ORR activity were prepared through magnetron sputtering and ion implantation.

Abstract Developing efficient and clean energy conversion technologies is paramount in depleting fossil fuel resources and escalating environmental pollution. Hydrogen fuel cells are increasingly seen as a potential answer to energy needs, thanks to their high energy conversion efficiency and clean, zero-emission function. Nonetheless, the slow pace of the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction and the high costs associated with platinum catalysts have restricted their widespread use. This study employed magnetron sputtering and ion implantation techniques to address the challenge of preparing Cu-N-C and Cu(Pd)-N-C catalysts. Experiments were conducted using glass carbon as the substrate. Cu-N-C catalyst films were successfully prepared by adjusting parameters such as the Ar and N2 ratio, sputtering power, and sputtering time. Subsequently, Cu(Pd)-N-C catalysts were synthesized by implanting different doses of Pd metal into the Cu-N-C films using ion implantation technology. The catalysts' morphology, structure, and elemental composition were analyzed using SEM, EDS, XRD, and XPS characterization techniques. Electrochemical performance tests revealed that, compared to the Cu-N-C catalyst without Pd implantation, the Cu(Pd)-N-C catalyst at an ion implantation dosage of 1×10¹⁷/cm² exhibited a significant enhancement in ORR performance, with the Eonset and E1/2 being 98 mV and 163 mV higher, respectively. A substantial increase in current density at 0.75 V. These findings underscore the effectiveness of magnetron sputtering and ion implantation in preparing catalysts and offer valuable insights for advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology. Mainly, they highlight the potential of non-platinum catalysts in reducing costs and enhancing the efficiency of fuel cells, which could be a significant step forward in the realm of clean energy.