Enhanced oxygen evolution reaction on amine functionalized graphene oxide in alkaline medium

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts are crucial for cost-effective clean fuel production.
• Developing metal-free catalysts addresses cost and environmental concerns associated with traditional catalysts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel metal-free tyramine functionalized graphene oxide (T-GO) electrocatalyst for enhanced OER performance.
• To evaluate the electrocatalytic activity and stability of T-GO in alkaline electrolytes for water splitting applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of tyramine functionalized graphene oxide (T-GO).
• Characterization using SEM, XRD, FTIR, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy.
• Electrochemical evaluation of OER activity, including onset potential, Tafel slope, and stability using techniques like RRDE.

Main Results:

• T-GO demonstrated a low OER onset potential of ~1.39 V and a small Tafel slope of 69 mV dec⁻¹, outperforming bare graphene oxide (GO).
• GO exhibited an OER onset potential of 1.51 V and a Tafel slope of 92 mV dec⁻¹.
• T-GO showed outstanding current stability and diffusion-controlled response, indicating its efficiency and durability.

Conclusions:

• Metal-free T-GO is an efficient electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline media.
• T-GO shows significant promise for applications in water splitting and clean fuel generation.