Preparation and characterisation of Pd nanocatalyst supported on nickel mesh

The primary aim of the publication is to show the possibility of the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles directly on the nickel molecular mesh. A combination of chemical and physicochemical methods was used. Design/methodology/approach Palladium chloride was chosen as the precursor of palladium nanoparticles, dissolved in alcohol, water or a mixture thereof. Surface topography studies of the prepared nanoparticles were made using a scanning electron microscope, Supra 35 (Zeiss’s company), and transmission electron microscope S/TEM TITAN 80-300 (FEI company). Qualitative studies were performed using spectroscopy of scattered X-ray energy using the Energy Dispersive Spectrometer to define the chemical composition of prepared nanocatalysts. The chemical states of the elements were analysed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Nanocatalyst structures were identified using X-ray crystallography. Findings Using such methods proved that the obtained material is Pd-Ni synthesised using a mixture of alcohol and water assisted by ultrasound. Nanoparticles with oval shapes and diameters below 10 nm were obtained. Research limitations/implications During the tests, it was decided to abandon the use of the ascorbic acid reducer, which, combined with the temperature, had a negative impact on the nickel substrate. Practical implications Nanocatalyst has been achieving a gradually increasing interest from researchers in environmental areas. The developed materials can be used in low-temperature carbon dioxide methanation. Originality/value The results provide a novel road for designing and developing efficient, low-cost, and low-temperature double metallic catalysts.