Synthesis of one dimensional Cu₂S nanorods using a self-grown sacrificial template for the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER)

Abstract

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is critical in electrochemical water splitting and requires an efficient, sustainable, and cheap catalyst for successful practical applications.

Recent Progress on Copper‐Based Electrode Materials for Overall Water‐Splitting

“…Most recently, Kale et al have used copper foam as a substrate as well as a precursor to design copper sulfide nanostructure via in situ chemical approach. [42] At first, one-dimensional Cu(OH) 2 nanorods were synthesized via chemical oxidation using NaOH and (NH 4 ) 2 S 2 O 8 in an aqueous medium. Later on, addition of Na 2 S to the solution followed by hydrothermal treatment at 90°C led to formation of Cu 2 S nanostructure (Figure 5a).…”

“…Increment of the geometric dimensions of the nanorods led to generation of more active sites on the Cu 2 S surface, which was also responsible for its better activity. [42]…”

“…High geometric surface area of Cu 2 S nanorods presumably appeared from the roughness induced on the surface during the hydrothermal synthesis starting from the smooth Cu(OH) 2 nanorods. Increment of the geometric dimensions of the nanorods led to generation of more active sites on the Cu 2 S surface, which was also responsible for its better activity [42] …”

Coupling of Thermal and Electrochemical-Activated Stainless-Steel Mesh as a Highly Robust Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

“…Moreover, it helps in increasing the wettability of electrolytes, and the generated gases can easily release without any disturbance to the morphology . Considering the advantages of 3D porous and freestanding catalysts, researchers developed a different kind of catalyst on the conducting substrate such as nickel, iron, and copper substrates. − …”

Two-phase synthesis of Fe doped cerium phosphate ultra-fine nanocrystals for efficient oxygen evolution

“…The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is considered to be the key anode reaction process in renewable energy technology to solve the growing environmental problems and the imminent global energy crisis. [1][2][3][4] However, because the OER reaction involves four electron transfers, its application is obviously limited. Developing active OER electrocatalysts that can accelerate O-H bond fracture and O-O bond formation is essential but remains a huge challenge.…”