Regulating hydroxyl species over Pd-based nanowires towards enhanced direct electrooxidation of ethylene to ethylene glycol

Electro-catalytic ethylene oxidation presents a promising avenue for selective ethylene glycol production, circumventing the drawbacks of traditional harsh catalytic methods. Despite challenges like low selectivity and current density, innovative catalyst designs have emerged. This study introduces novel PdAuBi alloy nanowires synthesized <i>via</i> a simple wet chemical route. The doping of Au atoms enhances catalytic activity by reducing hydroxyl binding energy, while Bi atoms increase hydroxyl coverage, promoting efficient ethylene oxidation and ethylene glycol production. Remarkably, the PdAuBi nanowires exhibit faradaic efficiency exceeding 72% with a liquid product selectivity of 87%, surpassing commercial Pd/C catalysts. <i>In situ</i> electrochemical infrared spectroscopy further elucidates the transformation process, emphasizing the role of hydroxyl regulation in enhancing ethylene to ethylene glycol conversion.