CoV2O6 coupled with MXenes as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for water splitting†

For hydrogen evolution via overall water splitting, conveniently linked hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are greatly sought. Thus, a three-step growth-conversion approach is used to create a particular type of Co₂V₂O₆·2H₂O/ZIF-L@MXene/NF in order to create a bifunctional water splitting catalyst. The strong coupling between Co₂V₂O₆·2H₂O/ZIF-L as a precursor to produce OER active species and a MXene that promotes mass/charge transfer greatly improves the performance of the catalyst. The as-prepared Co₂V₂O₆·2H₂O/ZIF-L@MXene/NF exhibits a low OER overpotential of 224 mV@50 mA cm⁻², an HER overpotential of 98 mV@10 mA cm⁻², and an overall water splitting overpotential of 1.478 mV@10 mA cm⁻². To accomplish total water splitting, the electrolyser can also be powered by a solar cell (1.5 V). This research will help to create non-noble metal-based electrocatalysts that are effective and economical.