Synthesis of Co–B in porous carbon using a metal–organic framework (MOF) precursor: A highly efficient catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction

Abstract

The sluggish anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) greatly hinders the working efficiency of electrochemical water splitting to produce hydrogen, and it is therefore important to explore high-performance and cost-effective OER catalysts. In this communication, we report the synthesis of cobalt boride incorporated within porous carbon using a metal–organic framework (MOF) as a precursor. The high catalytic activity of Co–B and the high conductivity of carbon both contribute to the OER catalytic activity of Co–B/C. When used as an OER catalyst, this material shows high catalytic activity, delivering a current density of 10mAcm−2 at a low overpotential of 320mV, as well as outstanding long-term electrochemical durability. This finding is of fundamental and practical importance as it not only extends the application of MOFs, but also introduces a new method for synthesizing highly efficient OER electrocatalysts.