Nanostructured cobalt phosphide-based films as bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting

Abstract

Nanostructured cobalt phosphide-based films were prepared using a simple, three-step electrodeposition–thermal annealing–phosphidation method. The films are effective electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction in acidic and alkaline electrolytes, and the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte. A symmetrical alkaline electrolysis cell with low overpotential of 0.41–0.51 V was demonstrated.