Electrochemical Data Research Articles

Heat-induced aliquation and phosphating of nickel as efficient catalysts for hydrogen evolution in alkaline seawater

Developing electrolytic seawater catalysts with excellent performance is crucial for efficient hydrogen production. In this study, Ni2P nanoparticles anchored on NiMo oxides, denoted as NiMo-P, are synthesized through heat-induced aliquation and phosphating of Ni in the ammonium nickel molybdate. Physicochemical characterizations reveal that the abundant Ni2P nanoparticles are uniformly distributed on NiMo oxides. Electrochemical data reveal that a mere overpotential of 103 mV is sufficient to achieve −100 mA cm−2 in alkaline simulated seawater, which is significantly lower than that of Pt foil (179 mV) and commercial Pt/C (165 mV). This remarkable activity observed in NiMo-P may be due to the superior water dissociation activity and hydrogen desorption ability of the Ni2P nanoparticles, as calculated by density functional theory, which surpasses that of Pt. Meanwhile, the NiMo-P exhibits outstanding stability, as evidenced by the chronoamperometric curve. The current remains at 98.1% of its initial value after 500 h, which can be attributed to the etching-hydrolysis method that strengthens the catalyst-carrier interaction. Besides, the inherent repulsion toward chlorine ions at the cathode effectively avoids chemical corrosion. Importantly, when coupled with the previously reported anode, NiMo-P also exhibits exceptional performance in alkaline seawater.

Contemporary Impedance Analyses of Archetypical PM6:Y6 Bulk‐Heterojunction Blend

AbstractAn organic bulk heterojunction based on a blend of a conjugated polymer PBDB‐T‐2F (PM6) and a non‐fullerene acceptor BTP‐4F (Y6) has come forward in recent years as an archetypical system for the study of the operating principles of organic photovoltaic devices. One of the experimental techniques that has shown immense value in the study of this blend is impedance spectroscopy (IS). In spite of its relative simplicity, this method and its derivatives offer the possibility of diverse, all‐round characterization of materials and devices of interest. This Perspective summarizes recent research demonstrating the application of IS as a powerful method to obtain multifaceted information on PM6:Y6 and presents a current understanding of the experimental results. A description of general approaches employed in the processing of experimental data, including the Nyquist plots, capacitance spectra, and energy‐resolved electrochemical IS data, is supplemented by additional analysis, notably on characterization of non‐geminate recombination of free charge carriers and their transport in this groundbreaking organic blend. Finally, this work outlines the perspectives and limitations of IS in the study of future promising materials and devices.

PEMFC Electrochemical Degradation Analysis of a Fuel Cell Range-Extender (FCREx) Heavy Goods Vehicle after a Break-In Period

With the increasing focus on decarbonisation of the transport sector, it is imperative to consider routes to electrify vehicles beyond those achievable using lithium-ion battery technology. These include heavy goods vehicles and aerospace applications that require propulsion systems that can provide gravimetric energy densities, which are more likely to be delivered by fuel cell systems. While the discussion of light-duty vehicles is abundant in the literature, heavy goods vehicles are under-represented. This paper presents an overview of the electrochemical degradation of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell integrated into a simulated Class 8 heavy goods range-extender fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle operating in urban driving conditions. Electrochemical degradation data such as polarisation curves, cyclic voltammetry values, linear sweep voltammetry values, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy values were collected and analysed to understand the expected degradation modes in this application. In this application, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack power was designed to remain constant to fulfil the mission requirements, with dynamic and peak power demands managed by lithium-ion batteries, which were incorporated into the hybridised powertrain. A single fuel cell or battery cell can either be operated at maximum or nominal power demand, allowing four operational scenarios: maximum fuel cell maximum battery, maximum fuel cell nominal battery, nominal fuel cell maximum battery, and nominal fuel cell nominal battery. Operating scenarios with maximum fuel cell operating power experienced more severe degradation after endurance testing than nominal operating power. A comparison of electrochemical degradation between these operating scenarios was analysed and discussed. By exploring the degradation effects in proton exchange membrane fuel cells, this paper offers insights that will be useful in improving the long-term performance and durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells in heavy-duty vehicle applications and the design of hybridised powertrains.

Strategies to Enrich Electrochemical Sensing Data with Analytical Relevance for Machine Learning Applications: A Focused Review.

In this review, recent advances regarding the integration of machine learning into electrochemical analysis are overviewed, focusing on the strategies to increase the analytical context of electrochemical data for enhanced machine learning applications. While information-rich electrochemical data offer great potential for machine learning applications, limitations arise when sensors struggle to identify or quantitatively detect target substances in a complex matrix of non-target substances. Advanced machine learning techniques are crucial, but equally important is the development of methods to ensure that electrochemical systems can generate data with reasonable variations across different targets or the different concentrations of a single target. We discuss five strategies developed for building such electrochemical systems, employed in the steps of preparing sensing electrodes, recording signals, and analyzing data. In addition, we explore approaches for acquiring and augmenting the datasets used to train and validate machine learning models. Through these insights, we aim to inspire researchers to fully leverage the potential of machine learning in electroanalytical science.

Copper (II) complexes based on the mixed ligand system: Study of synthesis, characterization, and stopped‐flow kinetics of copper oxidase‐mimicking catalytic activity

Two copper (II) complexes based on the mixed ligand system were synthesized and structurally characterized. The molecular formulae for complex (1), [Cu2L1L′] and complex (2), [CuL2L′] were determined based on analytical data, molar conductance, and thermal analysis results. The optimized structures of complexes (1) and (2) were determined by magnetic and spectroscopic measurements (FTIR, UV–Vis, and ESR) and confirmed by processing powder X‐ray diffraction data by Expo 2014 software. The geometry index (τ5), determined by ESR spectra and structural analysis based on powder X‐ray, demonstrates the square pyramidal geometry of the Cu (II) center of [Cu2L1L′] and [CuL2L′]. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were performed to elucidate the relationship between the redox properties of (1) and (2) and their oxidase‐mimicking catalytic activity. Catalytic aerobic oxidation of the polyphenols 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylcatechol (3,5‐DTBCH2), 4‐nitrocatechol, and 2‐aminophenol (2‐APH3) was studied by stopped‐flow technique. Promising catechol oxidase (COX) and phenoxazinone synthase (PHS) mimetic activity have been demonstrated for (1) and (2). Electrochemical data were used to determine the free energy (ΔG°) or driving force (−λ), and their correlation with the oxidase mimetic activity of(1) and (2) was examined. Several experimental procedures have been performed that have helped describe the catalytic mechanisms of the catalytic reactions taking place.

Rhodium-decorated palladium nanocubes supported on Ni(OH)2 nanosheets/C for enhanced ethanol oxidation

This study investigates the improvement of Palladium (Pd)-based nanocatalysts for ethanol oxidation in alkaline solutions, a process often hindered by the poisoning of the catalyst’s surface. We synthesise Pd nanocubes and Rhodium (Rh)-decorated Pd nanocubes, both supported by a composite of nickel hydroxide nanosheets and carbon (Ni(OH)2/C). The developed Pd nanocatalysts possess a nanocubic morphology with smaller sizes compared to Pd/C, alongside additional nanostructures like nanorods X-ray absorption near-edge structure and extended X-ray absorption fine structure analyses suggest that Rh decoration on Pd nanocubes prevents Pd oxidation, with Rh itself being oxidised. The electrocatalytic performance of the Rh/Pd/Ni(OH)2/C hybrid catalyst displays a notable enhancement, attributed to the combined effects of the exposed Pd (100) crystal surfaces, the addition of oxygenated species through the Ni(OH)2 component, and the deliberate addition of Rh. Comparative assessments reveal that this composite surpasses Pd/C and Pd/C nanocubes, achieving specific activities that are approximately 11.6 and 3.5 times greater, respectively. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy data and chronoamperometric studies confirm superior ethanol oxidation efficiency and improved catalytic stability. These findings highlight the utility of Rh/Pd/Ni(OH)2/C nanocubes in direct ethanol fuel cells, providing promising pathways for enhancing fuel cell technologies.

Investigation of the Adsorption Characteristics of <i>Theobroma cacao</i> Peels Biomass Inhibitors on Mild Steel Surfaces by EIS, SEM-EDX, XPS, and Chemical Studies in Acidic Media

Investigators used Potentiodynamic Polarization, Spectroscopy of Electrochemical Impedance (EIS), Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (SEM-EDX), Spectroscopy of X-Ray Photoelectron (XPS), and chemical studies to examine the inhibitory effect of Theobroma cacao peel extract (TCPE) on mild steel (MS) corrosion in 1.5M HCl. Studies of electrochemical data indicate that, TCPE reduces MS corrosion through adsorption using a mixed inhibition mechanism. As the inhibitor concentration grows and temperatures lowers, TCPE becomes more protective. The adsorption of TCPE molecules on the MS surface is controlled by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. To determine the correlation between the hampers effect and the structure of TCPE molecular, a number of chemical characteristics were computed.

Assessment of the microstructural features and electrochemical corrosion behaviour of nanostructured Gd2Zr2O7 EB-PVD TBCs under three salt conditions

Improving corrosion resistance is a challenging task, as it determines the life time of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). In this regard, this study was aimed to characterize the electrochemical corrosion behaviour of nanostructured Gadolinium Zirconate in three different corrosive salt conditions such as Na2SO4 + 55 wt% V2O5 (SM1), Na2SO4 + 10 wt% NaCl (SM2), and Na2SO4 + 7.5 wt% NaCl +7.5 wt% V2O5 (SM3). The uniformity of the coated surface was verified by mapping the vibrational bands associated with Gd and Zr using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy. The coated surface possessed a uniform columnar structure with leafy appearance. Potentiodynamic polarisation studies and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic data demonstrated that the nanostructured GZ exhibited superior corrosion resistance properties under SM1 salt condition as compared to SM2 and SM3 conditions. SEM and EDS analysis were used to evaluate the nanostructured GZ coatings that were subjected to electrochemical corrosion. In the case of SM2 and SM3 conditions, the surfaces were degraded with microcracks. The formation of corrosion products and the exposure of succeeding layers as a result of corrosion were also characterized using FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy, XRD technique and 3D optical microscope.

In-situ impedance spectroscopy on copper oxide scales under potential controlled oxidation at high temperatures

In recent years, copper oxide (Cu2O) has gained significant attention for its multifaceted role as a catalyst, photocatalyst and semiconductor. Possessing a p-type conductivity and a bandgap of 2.17 eV, Cu2O emerges as an ideal candidate for applications such as water splitting and photovoltaic cells. However, to utilize its full potential, an in-depth understanding of the electrical properties of Cu2O in terms of defect density and defect mobility is required. This knowledge forms the basis for the targeted production of oxides with precisely tuned electrical properties.Extensive research on thermal oxidation under varied conditions has been performed to clarify the mechanisms governing oxide formation and growth. However, the in-situ investigation of the electrical properties of the oxide layers during their formation process is challenging.This work introduces a new method for the controlled oxidation of copper, while concurrently offering an in-depth investigation of the electrical properties of these nanometer-thick oxide layers. The implemented arrangement of potentiostat and frequency response analyzer enables their artifact-free combination. Performing HT-CV measurements in a solid electrolyte cell-setup allows to control the (potential-dependent) oxygen pressure at the copper surface. Using HT-CV, the current represents the kinetics of the redox reactions and the electric charge corresponds to the amount of substance converted. In-situ electrochemical impedance data are used to determine the electrical properties of the controlled grown layers. As a result, the defect density is obtained as a function of the oxygen partial pressure.

Crystallographic and electrochemical corrosion resistance analyses of cataphoretically co-deposited spinel Co>0.5Mn0.1-0.3O0.1-0.4@rGO composites over α-Fe(110) as current collector for supercapatteries

Binder free spinel Co>0.5Mn0.1-0.3O0.1-0.4@rGO composite electrode films were fabricated via galvanostatic electrochemical deposition technique over α-Fe(110) as current collector for hybrid supercapattery. Self-designed, n-MOSFET embedded ATMega328P microcontroller assisted modules were deployed to record the chronopotentiometric as well as galvanostatic charging-discharging analysis for specific capacitance (Cs) measurements. Partial, exchange as well as limiting current densities(iL) and cathodic current efficiency were estimated. Electrochemical signature was analyzed from cyclic voltammetry data. Morphology and chemical nature of the composites were scrutinized with scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron, FT-IR and Raman spectra. Indigenously designed computer simulation programs coded in Python were used to optimize the deposition parameters and to analyze the crystalline structure from XRD data. The unit cell length for the FCC crystal with an octahedral geometry was ∼ 4.28 Å. An in-depth analysis of potentiodynamic polarization as well as electrochemical impedance spectral data were carried out to scrutinize the corrosion resistance and capacitance characteristics of the composites in KOH. From the Tafel constants, Ecorr, Icorr, Ru, RCT and ZW data, it was accentuated that rGO incorporated composite films offer enhanced corrosion protection for Fe(110) substrates than their individual counterparts along with augmented specific capacitance. Estimated Cs was about 1166 F.g−1 at a scan-rate of 10 mV.s−1. Impact of time-constant (τ) and current density over Cs was analyzed via GCD technique and was about 1458.73 F.g−1 at 2 τ and at 0.5 A.g−1. And the corresponding specific energy and power density were about 183.23 W.h.kg−1 and 237.75 W.kg−1 respectively. These composite electrode films impregnated with rGO not only improved the specific capacitance but also imparts the sacrificial corrosion resistance over the α-Fe(110) as current collector in presence of OH−as electrolyte and can serve as a sustainable electrode material for supercapatteries.

Detection and intelligent optimization of blood glucose signals based on MXene-assisted sensors

Two-dimensional materials exhibit unique properties that make them ideal for electronic sensing applications, particularly in the field of biosensors. In this study, a Ti3C2Tx MXene/graphene composite was investigated for its potential use in non-invasive blood glucose detection. The strong electrostatic interaction between MXene and graphene nanosheets effectively reduces the self-stacking of both components, resulting in the formation of a porous interlayer structure with enlarged interlayer spacing. This unique structure creates an efficient nanoscale transport channel, which increases the number of active sites and shortens ion diffusion paths. Consequently, the electrochemical properties of the composite membrane are enhanced, making it a promising candidate for sensing element applications. As the human blood glucose level is primarily determined by the glucose concentration in the blood, the concentration of glucose solution serves as the foundation for noninvasive blood glucose concentration detection. In this work, a prediction model was established using the partial least squares fitting method to correlate the electrochemical fingerprinting data with the glucose aqueous solution concentration, and the reliability of the model was verified. To address the limitations of the partial least squares method, which lacks nonlinear fitting capabilities, an RBF (radial basis function) network model was employed. Finally, a genetic algorithm was utilized to perform global optimization of the training parameters of the RBF network, and the quantitative relationship between the NIR spectral data and glucose concentration was validated. The findings of this study provide a theoretical basis for the development of equipment and the improvement of measurement accuracy in the field of human noninvasive glucose detection.

Cobalt phosphide embedded on interconnected ultrathin carbon nanosheets as an electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution in alkaline medium

A highly effective hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst was developed by combining Co2P nanoparticles (Co2P NPs) embedded on interconnected and ultrathin carbon nanosheets (CNS) through a facial in-situ thermal decomposition of the cobalt-triphenylphosphine complex. CNS were derived from the pyrolysis of sodium citrate in one step, resulting in an interconnected ultrathin nanosheet structure with a small thickness. The interaction between Co2P NPs and CNS boosted the electron transfer rate, resulting in a remarkable electrocatalytic performance toward the HER in an alkaline solution with excellent durability. An overpotential of −200 mV vs. RHE was sufficient to afford a current density of −10 mA cm−2 with a Tafel slope of 83.4 mV dec−1 in potassium hydroxide medium (1.0 M), which are lower than that of Co2P nanoparticles (-250 mV) with Tafel slope 93.3 mV dec−1. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data illustrated that the mutual coupling between the Co2P NPs and CNS supports the electrochemical HER performance and accelerates the kinetic of electron transfer. The high HER activity of the novel Co2P NPs/CNS catalyst is ascribed to the presence of CNS robust support.

Built-in electric field in NiO-CuO heterostructures to regulate the hydroxide adsorption sites for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural electrooxidation assisted hydrogen production

The development of catalysts with suitable adsorption behavior for the reaction molecules and the elucidation of their internal structure-adsorption-catalytic activity relationships are crucial for the electrooxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). In this work, NiO-CuO heterostructures with a spontaneous built-in electric field (BEF) are specifically designed and used to regulate the OH− adsorption site for freeing up the active site of HMF for the HMF oxidation reaction (HMFOR). The mechanism driving electron pumping/accumulation of the BEF is examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS). Electrochemical data and theoretical calculations show that BEF modulates the adsorption energy and adsorption site of substrate molecules, thereby enhancing the performance of HMFOR and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Notably, the NiO-CuO electrode demonstrates high 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) selectivity (99.76 %) and generation rate (13.79 mmol gcat−1 h−1). It only requires 1.33 V to obtain a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for HMFOR-coupled H2 evolution. This research introduces a novel approach by regulating the adsorption of reactive molecules for HMFOR-assisted H2 evolution.

Lanthanum-Ferrite based cathode: Impedance data interpretation via complex nonlinear least-squares and distribution of relaxation times analyses

Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite Oxide (LaSrCoFeO3) has been widely used as cathode material for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells at the temperature of 500–800 °C. At this temperature range, understanding the electrochemical behavior which is commonly analyzed by complex nonlinear least-squares (CNLS) analysis is very crucial in improving the cathode's performance. However, this analysis shows some limitations in interpreting the electrochemical processes in detail, particularly at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Hence, this study is conducted to compare the electrochemical impedance data analyses by CNLS and the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) of a fabricated LaSrCoFe|BCZY|LaSrCoFe (LaSrCoFeLa0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 and BCZY=BaCe0.54Zr0.36Y0.1O2.95) symmetrical cell. Impedance data of the cell is collected at T = 800 °C at two different stabilization times and to further enhance the analysis process, the impedance data of the cell at measurement temperatures of 700 °C and 750 °C are also included. In a Nyquist plot, the cell exhibits depressed semi-circles that represent a few processes occurring at the interface. The DRT analysis is more precise and easily reveals the semi-circles consisting of four different sub-processes (represented by four peaks) than CNLS (represented by four impedance arcs). The extracted responses from both analyses correspond to the oxygen reduction reactions that follow the Adler-Lane-Steele model. The stabilized symmetrical cells for respective 34 h and 17 h show an area-specific resistance (ASR) of (i) 0.22 Ωcm2 and 0.30 Ωcm2 (by CNLS) and (ii) 0.20 Ωcm2 and 0.26 Ωcm2 (by DRT). In addition, the ASR of the cell at T = 700 °C and T = 750 °C after being stabilized for 34 h is (iii) 0.71 Ωcm2 and 0.40 Ωcm2 (by CNLS) and (iv) 0.70 Ωcm2 and 0.44 Ωcm2 (by DRT), accordingly. Conversely, the cell's microstructure is not affected by the applied stabilization periods as observed by a scanning electron microscope.

Microporous Electrode Binders for Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers.

In anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolyzers, AEMs separate hydrogen and oxygen, but should efficiently transport hydroxide ions. In the electrodes, catalyst nanoparticles are mechanically bonded to the porous transport layer or membrane by a polymeric binder. Since these binders form a thin layer on the catalyst particles, they should not only transport hydroxide ions and water to the catalyst particles, but should also transport the nascating gases away. In the worst case, if formation of gases is >> than gas transport, a gas pocket between catalyst surface and the binder may form and hinder access to reactants (hydroxide ions, water). In this work, the ion conductive binder SEBS-DABCO is blended with PIM-1, a highly permeable polymer of intrinsic microporosity. With increasing amount of PIM-1 in the blends, the permeability for water (selected to represent small molecules) increases. Simultaneously, swelling and conductivity decrease, due to the increased hydrophobicity. Ex situ data and electrochemical data indicate that blends with 50% PIM-1 have better properties than blends with 25% or 75% PIM-1, and tests in the electrolyzer confirm an improved performance when the SEBS-DABCO binder contains 50% PIM-1.

Toward High Specific Energy and Long Cycle Life Li/Mn‐Rich Layered Oxide || Graphite Lithium‐Ion Batteries via Optimization of Voltage Window

Li/Mn‐rich layered oxide (LMR) cathode active materials promise exceptionally high practical specific discharge capacity (>250 mAh g−1) as a result of both conventional cationic and anionic oxygen redox. The latter requires electrochemical activation at high cathode potential (>4.5 V vs Li|Li+), though it is accompanied by capacity and voltage fade in the course of continuous release of lattice oxygen, layered‐to‐spinel phase transformation, redox couple shift, as well as transition metal dissolution, whereas the latter is particularly detrimental for graphite‐based anodes due to electrode crosstalk. Herein, the degradation is investigated in LMR || graphite full cells by systematically varying the voltage windows, analyzing electrochemical data and changes at the anode surface. Based on this, the optimal operational voltage window, i.e., upper and lower cutoff voltage (UCV and LCV), is elaborated to finally solve the dilemma of decent cycle life (at high UCVs) and insufficient LMR activation/capacity (at low UCV) and is shown to be superior via distinguishing between formation and postformation cycles of 4.5 and 4.3 V, respectively.

Durability analysis of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel Cell's gas diffusion layer based on distribution relaxation time analysis: Influence of the presence or absence of a micro-porous layer

The U.S. Department of Energy accelerated stress test carbon protocol emphasizes improving the durability of both the catalyst layer and the micro-porous layer (MPL) carbon support. This underscores the need for research focused solely on the degradation of the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL). Traditionally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy impedance data used to analyze resistance due to GDL durability has been interpreted through equivalent circuit models. However, this method simplifies simultaneous response and multiple models for the same data, which reduces the objectivity of the analysis. Therefore, this study analyzed the durability characteristics of GDLs with and without MPLs using distribution of relaxation times, a method less prone to subjectivity. In short, the results showed that substrates without MPL are more susceptible to performance degradation and loss, and highlighted the emergence of Warburg resistance due to limited diffusion under harsh environmental conditions.

Influence of Surfactant Types on the Anti-Corrosion Performance of Phosphate Chemical Conversion Coated Mg-8wt.%Li Alloy

In this work, the morphology, anti-corrosion performance and degradation mechanisms of two phosphate chemical conversion coatings containing the AEO (fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether) and AES (fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether sodium sulfate) on an as-cast Mg-8wt.%Li alloy were explored and compared. Although two coating layers had a petal-shaped structure and were composed of leaf-shaped particles, the coating layer of the AES-coated sample was relatively dense due to the smaller size of the formed petal-shaped structure. Based on the electrochemical data and hydrogen evolution measurements, the corrosion protectability of the coating layer on the AES-coated sample was better than that on the AEO-coated sample. The determined corrosion current densities (icorr) of the AES-coated and AEO-coated samples in the 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution were, respectively, 7.8 mA·cm−2 and 11.7 mA·cm−2, whereas the icorr value of the coated sample without a surfactant was 36.2 mA·cm−2.

Compositional alteration of low dimensional nickel sulfides under hydrogen evolution reaction conditions in alkaline media

Developing cost-effective electrodes for electrochemical water splitting with minimal kinetic losses remains a primary challenge in water electrolysis. Nickel-based dichalcogenides, particularly sulfides, have emerged as promising candidates for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the stability of various nickel sulfide (NixSy) phases under cathodic potentials in alkaline electrolytes is subject to debate. In this study, we investigate the HER activity and durability of both 2-dimensional (2D) and 3-dimensional (3D) NixSy nanostructures with diverse chemical compositions. Through cross-correlation analysis of spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization data, we elucidate the transformation behavior of these materials under operating conditions. Our findings reveal that NiS2 tends to undergo conversion to nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2), while Ni-rich phases like Ni3S4 and NiS exhibit greater stability. Furthermore, we demonstrate that in 3D nanostructures, the initial formation of a protective hydroxide layer on the surface inhibits further sulfide transformation. This nickel sulfide/hydroxide composite shows an improved HER activity with lower onset potential (−0.25 V), Tafel slope (105 mV s−1), and charge transfer resistance (17.3 Ω).

Evolutionary trends and research hotspots in electrochemical machining: A bibliometric analysis from 2010 to 2023

Electrochemical Machining has played an important role in solving manufacturing scenarios with difficult-to-machine materials, complex shapes, special requirements, and many other aspects. To systematically grasp the evolutionary trends, current status, and hotspots of research in the field of Electrochemical Machining, data analysis and mining of literature big data in the field of Electrochemical Machining from 2010 to 2023 were conducted, and graph visualization analysis was carried out. The research results indicate that: 1) Electrochemical Machining is highly valued by research institutions in various countries, with steady growth in research results and relatively high funding for research projects. China is in a leading position in terms of the number of papers and funding;2) A certain degree of cooperation has been formed globally around the research of Electrochemical Machining, and the cooperation between research institutions has obvious regional characteristics; 3) The research level of Electrochemical Machining has gradually deepened from theoretical research to interdisciplinary application research in materials science, energy, engineering, technology, and other fields. Research on machine learning based Electrochemical Machining has received increasing attention, and artificial neural networks have achieved new results in processing optimization applications. Artificial intelligence is the key technology and cutting-edge direction in the next stage of Electrochemical Machining research.