Study of Molybdenum-Carbide Based Material for Electro-Catalytic Application
by Sairaj Chowdhary
Under the supervision of: Prof. Shantanu K Behera
Polymer Derived Ceramics (PDCs)
A unique class of materials synthesized from pre-ceramic polymers, offering exceptional thermal and chemical stability.
What are PDCs?
PDCs are synthesized from pre-ceramic polymers (PCPs), typically OrganoSilicon compounds containing Silicon, Carbon, and Nitrogen. This process involves controlled heating in an inert atmosphere, transforming the polymer into a robust ceramic material.
The Role of Polysilazanes
Polysilazanes, a pre-ceramic precursor with Si-N bonds, provide excellent thermal and chemical stability, high durability, and increased corrosion resistance. They are key to creating high-temperature resistant SiCN coatings and fibers.
The PDC Synthesis Route
A systematic process transforms liquid pre-ceramic polymers into high-performance ceramics.
Mo-Carbide for Water Splitting
Molybdenum carbide's unique Pt-like electronic structure makes it a promising catalyst for Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution Reactions (HER & OER).
The Electrochemical Process
Water splitting is key to clean energy, involving two core reactions:
- HER (Cathode): 4H⁺ + 4e⁻ → 2H₂
- OER (Anode): 2H₂O → O₂ + 4H⁺ + 4e⁻
- Overall: 2H₂O → O₂ + 2H₂
Mo-carbide's high conductivity and unique structure enhance these reactions, overcoming the limitations of traditional synthesis methods.
Advanced Ceramic Supports
Si-based ceramics like SiOC and SiCN are used in various industries due to their robust properties.
SiCN (Silicon Carbonitride)
Offers higher thermal stability and mechanical properties. Ideal for high-temperature applications and protective coatings.
SiOC (Silicon Oxicarbide)
Favored for its photocatalytic properties and use as a support material in catalytic processes due to its chemical resistance.
Experimental Analysis & Results
Investigating the structural and catalytic properties of various molybdenum carbide phases.
XRD Patterns of Molybdenum Carbide
HER Performance Findings:
Measurements in 0.1 M perchloric acid (HClO₄) revealed a clear trend in catalytic activity for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER):
α-MoC₁₋ₓ < η-MoC << γ-MoC < β-Mo₂C
Raman Spectroscopy
Structural Insights:
The D and G bands indicate carbon structure. The intensity ratio (ID/IG) of ~0.93 for Mo₂C and ~0.85 for MoC suggests a higher crystallinity of graphitic carbon within MoC compared to Mo₂C.
Future Work
The path forward for this research involves several key steps to develop and test these materials further.
1. Synthesis and Investigation
Cross-linking of the polymer precursor followed by pyrolysis. The resulting nanocomposite's structural, microstructural, and electrochemical behavior will be thoroughly investigated.
2. Electrode Fabrication
Fabricating a working electrode using the synthesized active material to test its real-world performance in an electrochemical cell.