Enhanced Alcohol Electrochemical Oxidation by Using an Environmentally Friendly Xanthan Gum Binder

Abstract

In electrocatalytic processes, the intimate contact between the catalyst and the electrode is of paramount importance as it contributes to enhancing the catalytic activity. Nafion is a binding material frequently used to achieve this goal. However, its high price, high toxicity, and flammability make its application expensive and environmentally unfriendly. Here we show that xanthan gum (XG), a sugar-derived biopolymer, is a greater alternative and furthermore remarkably improves the electrocatalytic oxidation activity of alcohols and sugars in alkaline electrolytes. The even distribution of the catalyst-XG film on the electrode’s surface and its better mechanical properties drive an intimate contact between the catalyst and the electrode, hence facilitating the electron transfer. In addition, we found that the good hydrophilicity of XG films facilitates the interaction of alcohols and hydroxides with the catalyst, which was supported by DFT calculations. This finding is of crucial importance for industrial applications and environmental considerations. Indeed, the utilization of XG drastically minimizes the cost of electrochemical processes by using less catalyst and due to its nature contributes to protecting the environment. © 2023 American Chemical Society.