Synthesis of Copper–Carbon Nanocomposites and Their Application as Electrocatalysts

The preparation of copper-carbon composites using functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), fullerene black (FB) and N-containing soot prepared by carbonization of aniline-formaldehyde polymer (AFS) is described. The composite structure was studied by X-ray diffraction analysis, Electron spectroscopy and Energy-dispersive spectroscopy microanalysis. The influence of the nature of the carbon materials on the formation of copper micro- and nanoparticles prepared by a chemical reduction in their presence has been established. The resulting copper-carbon composites were used as electrocatalysts in the electrohydrogenation of nitrobenzene. The MWCNTs and AFS composites with a ratio to copper of 1 : 1, as well as composites with a mixed carbon base, showed electrocatalytic activity with an increase in the rate of hydrogenation of nitrobenzene compared to its electrochemical reduction on a non-activated copper cathode. It is assumed that due to the strong interaction of copper particles with the FB, its electrocatalytic activity was depressed. The nitrobenzene hydrogenation on all composites is accompanied by the formation of the main product aniline, as would be expected when the process is carried out in an alkaline environment and high voltages in the system. According to chromatographic analyses, the aniline yields were 98-99%.