MnO2 nanowires/CNTs composites as efficient non-precious metal catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

The non-precious metal catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is highly demanding due to the increasing global energy challenge. A 3-D network composed of MnO2 nanowires and carbon nanotube (CNT) was synthesized via crystal growth of MnO2 under hydrothermal and annealing process. The composite was characterized by PXRD, SEM and TEM. Due to its unique structure, the MnO2/CNT composite exhibits superior electrocatalytic performance towards ORR in alkaline medium compared to the commercial Pt/C in terms of the current density, methanol tolerance and long-term durability. These prominent electrochemical performances along with low cost and high abundance of the synthesized MnO2/CNT make it a promising cathode material in fuel cells.