Abstract:
The contemporary emphasis on energy conversion and storage is driven by escalating energy demands. Fuel cells are being identified as the pioneers and sustainable energy devices for future. Despite the promise of fuel cell technology as a clean energy source, its commercialization is impeded by elevated costs, primarily attributable to the utilization of precious platinum-based catalysts.[1] In order to mitigate costs and enhance catalytic efficiency, catalytic promoters are being employed. Molybdenum oxide (MoOy) materials are recognized as promising catalysts/co-catalysts with superior active sites and promotion efficiencies.[2,3] This is facilitated by the broad spectrum of oxidation states (ranging from +6 to +2) exhibited by molybdenum. Simultaneously, owing to the diverse oxidation states of molybdenum, transition metal molybdates (TMOs) exhibit promise as both positive (cathode) and negative (anode) electrodes in electrochemical energy storage devices.[4] TMOs also serve as adequate supports due to directional bonding and stability, enabling free movement of charge carriers during intercalation and deintercalation. Fundamental comprehension of crystal structure and the engineering of phase and microstructure are pivotal in energy conversion and storage mechanisms. These aspects are essential for achieving desired properties and optimal performance in specific applications. Furthermore, impurities in the prepared material significantly influence the developed methodology's repeatability and reliability. Exploration of the impact of various crystal planes of molybdenum oxide (MoO3) on enhancing the efficiency of platinum (Pt) catalysts in the electrooxidation of methanol is discussed.[5] Additionally, TMOs (T = Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn) materials were prepared through hydrothermal and microwave-assisted hydrothermal routes, to investigate their potential applications in energy conversion and energy storage processes.
References:
[1] N. Sazali, W. N. Wan Salleh, A. S. Jamaludin, M. N. Mhd Razali, Membranes (Basel). 2020, 10, 99.
[2] G. Ranga Rao, P. Justin, S. K. Meher, Catal. Surv. from Asia 2011, 15, 221.
[3] P. Justin, G. Ranga Rao, Int. J. Hydrogen Energy 2011, 36, 5875.
[4] L. Bai, Y. Y. Zhang, L. Zhang, Y. Y. Zhang, L. Sun, N. Ji, X. Li, H. Si, Y. Y. Zhang, H. Huang, Nano Energy 2018, 53, 982.
[5] H. Seshagiri Rao, P. Nagaraja, S. Sharma, G. Ranga Rao, P. Justin, Mater. Today Sustain. 2023, 24, 100570.