Novel electrosynthesis of Co–Mn–P nanosheets as efficient, economical and stable electrode materials for hydrogen evolution reaction and urea oxidation reaction

Abstract

The electrochemical water splitting process is one of the most promising approaches for sustainable hydrogen production. Unfortunately, the slow kinetic of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the surface of the anode has prevented the highly efficient production of hydrogen. One of the useful procedures to overcome this challenge is to replace the OER process by Urea oxidation reaction (UOR). Here, Co–Mn–P nanolayer was created on the surface of CoO nanosheets by electrodeposition process and its morphology, chemical composition and electrocatalytic properties were investigated in HER and UOR processes. In optimal conditions, this electrode needed only −82 mV and 1.342 V vs RHE, for HER and UOR processes at a current density of 10 mA cm⁻² respectively. In addition, this electrode demonstrated a unique activity in the two-electrode urea electrolytic cell. Significantly, a low cell voltage of 1.444 V was required at a current density of 10 mA cm⁻² in the urea electrolysis cell. Moreover, the studied electrode showed excellent stability in the HER and overall urea electrolysis systems. This study introduces an effective strategy for designing active and stable catalyst for energy saving hydrogen production.