Achieving efficient and robust seawater oxidation through rational design of V₂O₃/NiFeP composite

Direct seawater electrolysis has potential in green hydrogen production; however, its anode is susceptible to chloride-induced corrosion, limiting its durability. Herein, using nickel foam (NF) as a catalyst support, we developed a V₂O₃/NiFeP/NF anode for alkaline seawater oxidation. During the oxygen evolution reaction, NiFeP generates phosphate ions (PO₄^3-), which electrostatically repel chloride ions (Cl^-). As a Lewis acid, V₂O₃ enriches OH^- on the surface, thereby enhancing catalytic activity and facilitating Cl^- repulsion. At an industrial-scale current density of 1000 mA cm^-2, V₂O₃/NiFeP/NF requires only 335 mV of overpotential and operates stably for 1000 h with negligible degradation and a small amount of active chlorine generation. The membrane electrode assembly electrolyzer, comprising a V₂O₃/NiFeP/NF anode and a Pt/C/NF cathode, exhibits stable operation at 300 mA cm^-2 for 250 h.