Enhancing Stability and Activity of Transition Metal Chalcogenides: Development of Carbon-Based Hydrochar Supported Nickel-Cobalt Selenide Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have long been regarded as cost-substitutes for traditional noble metal electrocatalysts, exhibiting comparable activity in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, stability and activity remain crucial factors influencing the broader applicability of the catalysts. Therefore, enhancing the stability of transition metal chalcogenides is a key area of interest. This study delves into the development of carbon-based hydrochar support, serving as an alternative scaffold for depositing TMCs. Specifically, it aims to explore the application of scaffold for nickel-cobalt selenide (NiCoSe), a TMC exhibiting significant potential in accelerating the OER rate by increasing extrinsic activity through higher catalyst loading, enhanced porosity, and ensuring stability of the supported catalyst. The activity and stability of the NiCoSe/hydrochar are determined from cyclic voltammogram and chronoamperometric curves. Characterization of the synthesized NiCoSe on hydrochar show porous microstructure and well-dispersed electrocatalyst on hydrochar scaffold which allowed enhanced transport of species and aided electron transport through the electrolyte-electrode interface. SEM-EDS spectra show uniform distribution of NiCoSe which is advantageous for enhanced performance of the catalyst. This study elucidated the effect of hydrochar to enhance the extrinsic activity of NiCoSe towards the oxygen evolution reaction.