Matrix-type bismuth-modulated copper-sulfur electrode using local photothermal effect strategy for efficient seawater...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Efficient and stable electrocatalysts are essential for economic water splitting.
• Developing sustainable electrode materials is critical for green hydrogen production.
• Existing catalysts often face challenges in terms of efficiency, stability, and cost.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel bismuth-modulated nickel-boron electrode on sulfurized copper foils (Bi-NiB_x@CFS).
• To investigate the enhancement of catalytic activity using a localized photothermal effect strategy.
• To evaluate the electrode's performance and stability for overall seawater splitting.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of Bi-NiB_x@CFS via in situ mild electroless plating.
• Characterization of the 2D matrix-type nanosheet structure and crystalline-amorphous heterostructures.
• Electrochemical testing for water splitting performance and long-term stability evaluation.

Main Results:

• The Bi-NiB_x@CFS electrode exhibits a unique 2D matrix-type nanosheet structure with enhanced active sites and gas transmission.
• The localized photothermal effect strategy improved catalytic performance by approximately 10% at 10 mA cm^-2.
• Achieved a low overpotential of 1.486 V for seawater splitting and demonstrated stable operation for 200 hours.

Conclusions:

• The Bi-NiB_x@CFS electrode offers a promising pathway for efficient and stable overall seawater splitting.
• The localized photothermal effect is an effective strategy for enhancing electrocatalyst performance.
• This novel electrocatalyst holds potential for green hydrogen production and sustainable energy applications.