A three-dimensional ultralong-CNTA-supported Pd-based anode (Pd/CNTA) has been designed for ethanol oxidation. Nano-size Pd particles were uniformly attached to the surface of CNTs within CNTA by using pulse electrodeposition technique. The as-prepared Pd/CNTA anode is featured with low ion diffusion resistance, vertical electron conduction, and large surface area, which offer enhanced active sites for ethanol oxidation reaction and allow fast ion adsorption/desorption from the electrode. The performance of the Pd/CNTA anode is tested and compared with that of Pd/C and Pd/MWCNT (multiwall carbon nanotube) electrodes for ethanol oxidation in alkaline media. The mass activity of the current Pd/CNTA electrode was 17.5 and 10.3 times higher than that of Pd/C and Pd/MWCNT electrodes, respectively. This novel electrode can provide efficient ethanol oxidation and may form a new promising platform for both fundamental investigation of the effects of electrode structure and the development of high-performance alkaline direct ethanol fuel cells.
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