Ni3Fe nanoarray encapsulated in Co, N-dual doped carbon shell for efficient electrocatalytic oxygen evolution in both alkaline and carbonate electrolyte

Abstract

Exploring of efficient electrocatalysts based on nonprecious metals is of great importance for the development of hydrogen energy and related energy conversion technologies. Metallic Ni3Fe nanoarray is firstly fabricated on carbon cloth as efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalyst. Co, N-dual doped carbon shell derived from metal organic framework is coated on the Ni3Fe nanoarray to enhance electrocatalytic activity and stability. The as-prepared composite catalyst only needs a low overpotential of 170 mV to drive 10 mA cm−2 current density in alkaline solution, and an overpotential of 370 mV in carbonate buffer solution. Moreover, the catalyst exhibit excellent durability in both alkaline and carbonate electrolyte. Good conductivity, rich active sites, fast electron transport process and synergistic effect between Ni3Fe and the doped carbon together contributes to the efficient catalytic performance. This synthesis approach provides a new way to develop efficient nonprecious metal based electrocatalysts for water oxidation and other energy-related applications.