In situ self-reconstructed hierarchical bimetallic oxyhydroxide nanosheets of metallic sulfides for high-efficiency electrochemical water splitting

Abstract

The advancement of economically efficient electrocatalysts for alkaline water oxidation based on transition metals is essential for hydrogen production through water electrolysis. In this investigation, a straightforward one-step solvent method was utilized to spontaneously cultivate bimetallic sulfide S-FeCo_1 : 1/NIF on the surface of a nickel–iron foam (NIF). Capitalizing on the synergistic impact between the bimetallic constituents and the highly active species formed through electrochemical restructuring, S-FeCo_1 : 1/NIF exhibited remarkable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance, requiring only a 310 mV overpotential based on 500 mA cm⁻² current density. Furthermore, it exhibited stable operation at 200 mA cm⁻² for 275 h. Simultaneously, the catalyst demonstrated excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and overall water-splitting capabilities. It only requires an overpotential of 191 mV and a potential of 1.81 V to drive current densities of 100 and 50 mA cm⁻². Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were also employed to validate the impact of the bimetallic synergistic effect on the catalytic activity of sulfides. The results indicate that the coupling between bimetallic components effectively reduces the energy barrier required for the rate-determining step in water oxidation, enhancing the stability and activity of bimetallic sulfides. The exploration of bimetallic coupling to improve the OER performance holds theoretical significance in the rational design of advanced electrocatalysts.