Current progress of Pd-based electrocatalysts for the electrooxidation of ethanol in an alkaline solution

Fuel cells present an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Among the different types of fuel cells, direct ethanol fuel cells are particularly notable for their suitability in portable devices and light-duty vehicles. A key approach to developing sustainable energy solutions is to create efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly catalysts for energy conversion technologies. Presently, numerous studies are concentrated on the use of palladium and palladium-based electrocatalysts to improve the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). However, the high costs and poor durability of the electrocatalysts have hindered their commercialization. Investigating new Pd-based catalysts that exhibit remarkable activity and durability is probably the key to solving this issue. This review article offers a summary of the progress made over the past three years regarding the EOR process, focusing on synthesis techniques for materials that consist of Pd, and less or non-noble metal elements. Besides that, the review outlines the future outlook of Pd-based catalysts and offers useful research paths and approaches for advancing the study.