Invited Speaker
 Prof. Ching-Lung Chen

Prof. Ching-Lung Chen

Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology
Speech Title: Electrocatalytic Nitrate Conversion to Dinitrogen through Bimetallic Catalysts

Abstract: Elevated levels of nutrients in aquatic environments, a phenomenon known as eutrophication, are a growing worldwide concern. This issue is primarily intensified by the excessive application of both naturally derived and artificially produced fertilizers in agriculture, alongside the release of industrial byproducts containing nitrates into water systems. Addressing this widespread contamination necessitates the development of novel approaches for eliminating nitrates from polluted water. One promising avenue involves the use of specialized electrocatalysts featuring unique atomic arrangements. This research explored the creation of dual-metal electrodes composed of palladium and copper. Specifically, these Pd/Cu electrodes were prepared with varying durations of palladium coating, ranging from one to three minutes, to assess their effectiveness in reducing nitrate. The physical and chemical properties of these electrodes, including their morphology, elemental makeup, and atomic arrangement, were thoroughly investigated using a suite of analytical methods. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the creation of a combined Pd/Cu material. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of tiny, evenly spread palladium particles on the copper substrate. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy corroborated the presence of palladium in its elemental state and copper in its oxidized form, further supporting the formation of the alloy. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that the Pd/Cu electrode exhibited a notably enhanced capacity for electrochemical nitrate reduction compared to pure copper, as evidenced by a clear peak indicating nitrate conversion. Notably, the Pd/Cu electrode demonstrated almost complete nitrate removal and a high selectivity towards the production of nitrogen gas at a fixed current density. These results underscore the potential of this electrocatalytic strategy for purifying water by removing nitrates, offering a viable solution to the critical environmental challenge of nitrate pollution.