CoC₂O₄·2H₂O derived Co₃O₄ nanorods array: a high-efficiency 1D electrocatalyst for alkaline oxygen evolution reaction

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• High-performance catalysts are crucial for energy conversion and storage systems.
• Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are essential for technologies like water splitting and metal-air batteries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a self-standing, high-performance, and durable OER catalyst.
• To investigate the catalytic activity of Co3O4 nanorods array on Co foil (Co3O4 NA/CF).

Main Methods:

• In situ development of Co3O4 nanorods array on Co foil.
• Electrochemical characterization of the catalyst in 1.0 M KOH.

Main Results:

• The Co3O4 NA/CF catalyst achieved a current density of 15 mA cm-2 at an overpotential of 308 mV.
• The catalyst demonstrated good long-term electrochemical durability.
• A high turnover frequency of 0.646 mol O2 s-1 was achieved at an overpotential of 410 mV.

Conclusions:

• The self-standing Co3O4 NA/CF is a promising 1D OER catalyst electrode.
• The catalyst exhibits excellent activity and durability for energy applications.
• This material offers a new avenue for efficient oxygen evolution catalysis.