FeMn bimetallic MOF directly applicable as an efficient electrocatalyst for overall water splitting

Abstract

The preparation of high-efficiency, stable and low-cost oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts is always a challenge for new energy systems. In this work, a simple hydrothermal synthesis method was used to obtain FeMn bimetallic organic materials (FeMn-MOF/NF) grown on foamed nickel (NF) in one step. Moreover, FeMn-MOF/NF(1:1) had larger electrochemical specific surface area and unique nano-flower-like structure. The overpotentials of OER and HER in alkaline solution at a current density of 50 mA·cm−2 were 290 mV and 260 mV, respectively, and the total water splitting potential at this current density is only 1.7 V. The excellent activity and stability were attributed to the synergistic effect of FeMn. The bimetal and abundant active sites could promote the release of oxygen during the catalytic process.