Abstract
Background: Nano-Co3O4 has been used in various technological areas and applications such as electrochemical sensors and electrochemical water splitting. Even though many efforts have been expended to prepare nano-Co3O4, the development of novel methods to prepare Co3O4 using simple processes and at low cost remain a topic of interest. Besides, it could be economic and useful if the synthesized nanoparticle could be applied as efficient electrocatalyst upon its immobilization on a cheap base electrode material by very simple method for various practical applications including renewable energy.
Method: We prepared nano-Co3O4 by a direct thermal decomposition of an inexpensive, simple and widely available cobalt inorganic precursor, such as Co(NO3)2·6H2O without any type of prereaction or processing. The nano-Co3O4 was immobilized on filter-paper-derived carbon electrode by drop-drying method for applying as electrode materials toward water electrooxidation.
Results: The X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy analysis confirmed the formation of short nanorods of single-phase Co3O4 upon thermal decomposition of Co(NO3)2·6H2O at 520°C. The electrocatalytic properties of the nano- Co3O4 were evaluated after immobilizing it on a cheap carbon electrode derived from normal filter paper. The modified electrode showed good electrocatalytic properties toward water oxidation in an alkaline solution.
Conclusion: In conclusion, we developed a very simple, straight-forward and economic method for preparation of nano-Co3O4 and immobilized it on very cheap carbon electrode for evaluating its electrocatalytic properties. Due to the high electrocatalytic properties, the prepared nano-Co3O4 could potentially play an important role in various practical fields.
Keywords: Cobalt(II) nitrate hexahydrate, thermal decomposition, nano-Co3O4, characterization, filter-paper-derived carbon electrode, electrochemical water oxidation.
Graphical Abstract
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Role of nanomaterials in fabrication of coatings, Machining and Joining
The application of nanoscience has brought about a revolution in the field of mechanical engineering by providing novel materials, boosting manufacturing processes, and generating cutting-edge products. The purpose of this special issue is to investigate the enormous impact that nanoscience has had on mechanical engineering, with a particular emphasis on ...read more
Advanced Inorganic Nanocomposites and Their Emerging Applications
This special issue collection will highlight developments on the recent trends about the synthesis of metal oxides, nanoclusters, biomaterials, 2D nanomaterials, nanocrystals, nanocomposites, etc. and their applications in electrochemical systems, tissue regeneration, energy storage and harvesting, sensors, etc. The novelty of the methods in the chemical synthesis and their characterizations, ...read more
Applicability of Nanotechnology for Performance Enhancement of Clean Energy Technologies
Population growth, industrialization, and improvement in living quality would lead to further increase in energy demand in near future. Regarding the disadvantages of fossil fuels such as fluctuations in their price, high emissions of greenhouse gases and restriction of their sources, it is crucial to use and exploit alternative energy ...read more
Graphene and 2D Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
This thematic issue will discuss the recent advances in graphene-based nanomaterials for different energy technologies. Graphene possesses a high surface area, and stable structure and exhibits many interesting electronic, optical, and mechanical properties due to its 2D crystal structure. Graphene is of both fundamental interest and suitable for a wide ...read more
Related Books
Nanoscale Field Effect Transistors: Emerging Applications
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications Part II
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications (Part I)
Role of Nanotechnology in Cancer Therapy
Synthesis and Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures
Pathways to Green Nanomaterials: Plants as Raw Materials, Reducing Agents and Hosts
Applications of Nanomaterials in Medical Procedures and Treatments
Synthesis of Nanomaterials
Nanobiotechnology: Principles and Applications
Bio-Inspired Nanotechnology
53
5
1
1