Controlled synthesis of Gd2MoO6 nanoflakes for enhanced charge kinetics in electrocatalytic oxygen evolution

Abstract

This research work aims to establish the functionality of Gd2MoO6 nanostructures for application in electrocatalytic oxygen evolution. Solvent assisted synthesis in ethylene glycol has led to controlled growth of Gd2MoO6 nanoflakes with smooth surfaces and well defined ultrathin edges. The LSV plots revealed an overpotential of 380 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA/cm2, thus establishing the robust oxygen evolution activity of the Gd2MoO6 nanoflakes. Compared to the samples developed in water, the samples developed in ethylene glycol revealed lower Tafel slopes, higher chronoamperometric currents, lower impedance to charge transfer and higher ECSA owing to more efficient charge kinetics along their tailored nanoflake surfaces. The progressive oxidation of the Gd ions have led to oxygen evolution activity, as proposed in the oxygen evolution mechanism. Thus this work should create a strong platform for further studies on the functionality of Gd2MoO6 nanomaterials for clean energy applications.