A high entropy metallic–high entropy nonmetallic community as a high performance electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction and oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract

The multi-element synergism in high-entropy materials (HEMs) provides great opportunities as multi-functional catalysts or for the promotion of tandem reactions. Herein, a strategy that utilizes a high entropy precursor is proposed to realize the formation of a unique high entropy metallic–high entropy non-metallic community (HEM–HENMC). Aminotriazole acts as a “bonding agent” for the high entropy precursor, and not only binds the five metals Cr, Mn, Fe, Co and Ni together, but also introduces nitrogen and carbon in situ. After simultaneous phosphorization and vulcanization and surface oxidation, the unique HEM–HENMC containing five metals (Cr, Mn, Fe, Co and Ni) and five non-metals (C, N, O, P and S) was successfully prepared. The synergistic effect of the various non-metal and metal ions imparts the HEM–HENMC with excellent electrochemical activity. When used as an OER electrocatalyst, the HEM–HENMC exhibits a low overpotential of 211.9 mV (@10 mA cm⁻²) and has excellent stability for over 25 h, while as an ORR electrocatalyst, a satisfactory initial voltage of 0.977 V, half wave potential of 0.841 V and excellent 25 h electrochemical stability are achieved. This work provides an important research basis for the development of high entropy metallic–high entropy nonmetallic materials.