NiTiO3/co-NC nanocomposite as a dual-functional Electrocatalyst for efficient ORR and sustainable bioelectricity generation
Formulating inexpensive and efficient electrocatalysts is fundamental to advancing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) effectiveness and improving microbial fuel cell (MFC) operation. For this investigation, a NiTiO3/Co-NC nanocomposite was synthesized through the integration of perovskite-type NiTiO3 with nitrogen-functionalized carbon produced from ZIF-67. Structural, morphological, and surface examinations confirmed the proper incorporation of NiTiO3 nanoparticles integrated into the porous Co-NC matrix, providing abundant exposed active sites, high surface roughness, and uniform elemental distribution. Electrochemical evaluations revealed an increased onset voltage (0.25 V vs. Ag/AgCl), elevated diffusion-limited current per unit area (1.49 mA cm−2), and a favorable four-electron pathway with a mean number of electrons transferred at 3.33. The composite also featured the smallest charge transfer resistance (21.54 Ω) and Tafel slope (45 mV dec−1), highlighting superior ORR kinetics and efficient interfacial charge transfer. When implemented as the cathode catalyst during MFCs operation, NiTiO3/Co-NC achieved the highest open-circuit potential (685 mV), maximum energy output density (201 mW m−2), chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency (87.20%), and coulombic efficiency (10.78%), outperforming both pristine NiTiO3 and Co-NC. This data shows that the cooperative integration of NiTiO3 and Co-NC enhances catalytic activity, reduces internal resistance, and improves substrate utilization, offering a promising strategy for designing advanced electrocatalysts for sustainable bioelectrochemical energy systems.
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Formulating inexpensive and efficient electrocatalysts is fundamental to advancing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) effectiveness and improving microbial fuel cell (MFC) operation.