V2C MXene-TiO2 nanocomposite as an efficient electrode material for oxygen evolution reaction (OER)

Abstract

Efficient electrocatalysts are needed to produce clean energy. Noble metals show excellent catalytic activity, but the high cost of these materials limits their practical utility. 2D materials like carbides and nitrides possess metallic properties, ceramic nature, and high surface area. These traits made 2D materials compete as electrocatalysts with efficient noble metals. In this work, TiO2 nanoparticles were introduced in the layers and surface of V2C MXene which can further enhance the electron transport ability of carbide. The SEM images reveal the coverage of V2C MXene with TiO2 nanoparticles. The V2C-TiO2 nanocomposite was electrochemically tested for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The nanocomposites exhibit an overpotential of 425 mV at the current density of 50 mA/cm2. The durability of the electrocatalyst was tested by chronoamperometry and it exhibited excellent stability for 48 h with negligible change in current density. Hence, a cost-effective electrocatalyst was prepared for OER.