Interfacial Charge Transfer Modulation in Laser-Synthesized Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen Evolution

Abstract

Advancements in laser-based material development have enabled precise engineering of catalysts, thus promoting efficient and sustainable water-splitting reactions. This study presents a green approach for synthesizing a layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based catalyst on nickel foam (NF) using pulse-laser irradiation in liquids and microwave processes. The enhanced catalytic efficiency of NiFe-based LDH compared to IrO2/NF is demonstrated by its low overpotential (η ~ 292 mV), high current density, and enhanced charge transfer kinetics. Density functional theory studies portrayed the tailoring phenomenon of Fe on the electronic structure of the material, boosting its performance in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This study further explores the effective tuning of Fe insertion on the structural, electronic, and catalytic properties of Ni(OH)2 and NiFe LDHs, revealing on the change in the band gap (from 1.77 eV to 1.81 eV) and intrinsic magnetic moment (from 8 B to 20.3B). Additionally, the catalytic assessment showed superior OER performance, a reduction in η, and a 57% efficiency improvement in NiFe LDH, aligning with experimental findings and demonstrating enhanced catalytic effect in NiFe LDH/Ni(OH)2/NF toward OER. These results highlight the promising potential of laser-mediated techniques in fabricating efficient and cost-effective OER catalysts for sustainable energy production.