Electrodeposition of Gold Nanoparticles from a Low Electrolyte Concentration for Ethanol Electrooxidation

Abstract

In this research, the spherical gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were successfully synthesized over fluorine-doped tin oxide glass (FTO) substrate from an additive-free and low-concentration electrolyte. Based on the field emission scanning electron microscopy micrograph, the AuNPs tend to agglomerate and form spherical particles with protrusions outward. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy shows that Au/FTO has a lower charge transfer resistance than the substrate, indicating catalytic reactivity of the AuNPs. The cyclic voltammetry measurement exhibits an oxidation peak current at about 1.83 mA/cm2, showing a high catalytic response of AuNPs on ethanol electrooxidation.