Reducing noble metal dependence: oxygen evolution reaction with a Ru-minimized Bi2Ru2O7@MOF-801 composite

Abstract

Developing efficient and noble metal-minimized electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reactions (OER) is critical for energy conversion reactions. Here we present Ru-minimized Bi₂Ru₂O₇@MOF-801 that synergistically combines the high catalytic activity of the bimetallic oxide with the unique structural and hydrophilic properties of the Zr-MOF. The composite achieves superior OER performance with a low overpotential of 307 mV at 50 mA cm⁻² and a Tafel slope of 99.8 mV dec⁻¹ surpassing those of pure Bi₂Ru₂O₇ and MOF-801. Comparative testing with cutting-edge catalysts shows that using less Ru and incorporating a MOF work well together, providing a promising way to make high-performance OER catalysts that are also cost-effective by integrating the MOF for energy applications.