In situ generated Cu–Co–Zn trimetallic sulfide nanoflowers on copper foam: a highly efficient OER electrocatalyst

Abstract

The electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is an integral part and a stepping stone to various electrochemical technologies in the field of electrochemical energy conversion. The development of OER catalysts with low-cost materials, industry-related activity and long-term durability is highly needed, but remains challenging at this stage. In this paper, Cu ions in a copper foam (CF) substrate were replaced with Cu(OH)₂ grown on CF to participate in the subsequent reaction, and then a subsequent two-step hydrothermal method was used to obtain the nanoflower-like Cu–Co–Zn trimetallic sulfide (named CuCoZn–S-3) catalyst, whose unique flower structure ensures that the catalyst surface exhibits a larger electrochemical active area, so as to expose plentiful active sites. The synergism between metals regulates the electron environment and accelerates the charge transfer rate, greatly improving the electrocatalytic activity of the catalyst. The prepared CuCoZn–S-3 exhibits excellent OER performance under alkaline conditions. It requires overpotentials of only 175 mV and 242 mV to drive current densities of 10 mA cm⁻² and 100 mA cm⁻², respectively. The Tafel slope of CuCoZn–S-3 is 62.3 mV dec⁻¹. This study may provide a viable strategy for the rational preparation of low-cost and efficient OER electrocatalysts in alkaline medium.