AgNPs-MWCNTs/TiO2 nanotubes/Ti electrocatalyst for the electrocatalytic oxidation of glycerol

A novel kind of AgNPs-MWCNTs/TiO2 nanotubes/Ti electrocatalyst for the electrocatalytic oxidation of glycerol was fabricated via electrodeposition of Ag nanoparticles and functionalized multi walled carbon nanotubes on previously formed TiO2 nanotubes/Ti electrode. The morphology studies showed that AgNPs-MWCNTs nanocomposites have dendritic structures, where Ag nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed on the surface of MWCNTs. Electrochemical investigation exhibited that the AgNPs-MWCNTs/TiO2NTs/Ti show much higher peak current density and lower charge transfer resistance towards the glycerol oxidation than AgNPs/TiO2NTs/Ti electrode, indicating good electrocatalytic performance and kinetic reversibility of the AgNPs-MWCNTs/TiO2NTs/Ti electrocatalysts. The improved electrocatalytic activity of modified electrode is originated from the synergetic effect of AgNPs-MWCNTs, the unique nanostructure and large surface area which can provide more active sites to catalyze the glycerol oxidation.