Three-Dimensional\nMXene-Based Pd/Ni/Cu Electrocatalyst\nfor Methanol Oxidation Reaction with Efficient Performance

In this work, we introduce a unique approach for fabricating\na\nthree-dimensional (3D) Cu-ZIF-8/MXene, combing the merits of MOFs\nand MXene to enhance their overall performance. Subsequently, the\nsynthesis of 3D MXene-based Cu and N-doped porous carbon (Cu-NPCM)\ncomposites, characterized by high specific surface area, superior\nconductivity, and abundant active sites, was achieved through the\ncarbonization and acid etching of Cu-ZIF-8/MXene. Utilizing the resulting\n3D Cu-NPCM composites as effective electrocatalyst supports, Ni and\nPd NPs were uniformly dispersed, preventing the aggregation of metal\nNPs. The unique structure of Cu-NPCM, coupled with the synergy of\nNi and Pd, facilitates the creation of interconnected channels for\nrapid reactant and product diffusion, along with a substantial amount\nof OH<sub>ad</sub>, thereby enhancing the electrocatalytic efficiency.\nRemarkably, the designed trimetallic Pd/Ni/Cu-NPCM catalyst demonstrates\nan advanced mass activity of 3641.2 mA mg<sub>Pd</sub><sup>–1</sup> in the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), surpassing Pd/Cu-NPCM\n(2200.5 mA mg<sub>Pd</sub><sup>–1</sup>), Pd/Cu-NPC (1447.1\nmA mg<sub>Pd</sub><sup>–1</sup>), and Pd/C (209.3 mA mg<sub>Pd</sub><sup>–1</sup>) electrocatalysts by 1.66, 2.51, and\n17.4 times, respectively. This research introduces an innovative approach\nto creating advanced support materials for electrocatalysts, simultaneously\nexpanding the range of potential applications for direct methanol\nfuel cells (DMFCs).