A Review on MXene as Promising Support Materials for Oxygen Evolution Reaction Catalysts

Abstract

The harsh operating conditions of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water electrolysis severely degrade the activity and stability of the electrocatalysts due to elemental leaching or particle agglomeration. Therefore, it is crucial to incorporate support materials that effectively immobilize catalyst particles for developing efficient OER catalysts. This review aims to highlight the role of MXene as a support material to improve the performance of OER catalysts. First, the extended OER mechanism is briefly described in terms of the effect of MXene support on OER catalysts. Then, various synthesis methods of MXene and catalyst‐MXene compounds are introduced, and important properties of MXene that are beneficial to improve OER performances are discussed. The electrocatalytic results of the enhanced OER catalysts due to the effective MXene support are also summarized. Finally, future challenges and prospects are proposed for utilizing MXene as an excellent support material for various electrocatalysis.

Recent Advanced Developments and Prospects of Surface Functionalized MXenes-Based Hybrid Composites toward Electrochemical Water Splitting Applications

“…Conversely, MXene terminated with −O groups exhibit the highest stability, shielding inner transition metal atoms from environmental exposure and thereby enhancing oxidation resistance, particularly advantageous in corrosive environments like water electrolysis. 114 Moreover, high durability is essential for catalyst materials intended for long-term applications without compromising the catalytic activity. For example, a hybrid catalyst comprising NiFeLa-layered double hydroxide (LDH) vertically aligned on Ti 3 C 2 T x (v-Ti 3 C 2 T x )/NF substrate exhibited remarkable stability up to 1200 h at a current density of 100 mA/cm 2 in 1.0 M KOH, surpassing commercial RuO 2 /NF which experienced significant potential rise after 100 h. 115 Similarly, MXene-supported OER catalysts showcased enhanced stability, which is attributed to the strong synergy between the catalyst and MXene.…”

“…For instance, −OH groups are prone to decomposition, while −F groups are susceptible to desorption or replacement by other elements due to weak chemical bonding. Conversely, MXene terminated with −O groups exhibit the highest stability, shielding inner transition metal atoms from environmental exposure and thereby enhancing oxidation resistance, particularly advantageous in corrosive environments like water electrolysis . Moreover, high durability is essential for catalyst materials intended for long-term applications without compromising the catalytic activity.…”