Bimetallic NiFe alloys as highly efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction

In this study, binary NiFe alloy nanoparticles are successfully prepared using a simple hydrothermal method followed by H-2 reduction. The nanoparticles are then applied as electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Compared to unary Ni or Fe, the binary NiFe alloy electrocatalyst exhibits a much lower overpotential of 298 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm(-2), and it exhibits electrocatalytic activity for OER superior to that of state-of-the-art RuO2 and IrO2 noble metal oxide catalysts. Moreover, the alloy catalyst exhibits substantial longterm durability after 1000 cyclic voltammetry tests. This remarkable electrochemical performance mainly originates from the synergistic effects of Fe incorporation into Ni species, leading to the improved charge transfer kinetics and intrinsic activity of the catalyst. These results provide a promising avenue for developing cost-effective and high-performance electrocatalysts as advanced electrodes for energy storage and conversion systems.