Development of Ni-doped Co3O4 oxygen evolution catalysts for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis.

This study investigates nickel-doped cobalt oxide (Ni-doped Co 3 O 4) nanoparticles as catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers (AEMWEs). Through various characterization techniques, Ni 0.45 Co 2.55 O 4 was identified as exhibiting superior OER activity compared to pristine Co 3 O 4 and other Ni-doped compositions, offering reduced overpotential and higher current density. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provided mechanistic insights. Evaluation in an AEMWE single-cell setup confirmed Ni 0.45 Co 2.55 O 4 stability and efficiency for hydrogen production. The study underscores the importance of transitioning to renewable sources for hydrogen production and highlights the role of AEMWEs with non-noble metal catalysts in reducing costs. Moreover, it emphasizes the critical influence of the OER on AEMWE performance. Overall, the research demonstrates the potential of Ni-doped Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles as effective catalysts for sustainable hydrogen production, aligning with the goal of achieving 2050 net-zero emissions. • Ni-doped Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles were synthesized by a facile chemical synthesis combined with an annealing treatment. • Density functional theory was employed to predict reduced overpotential for Ni-doped Co 3 O 4 compared to pristine Co 3 O 4. • Ni-doped Co 3 O 4 (Ni x Co 3-x O 4) nanoparticles with particle sizes ranging from 58 nm to 164 nm. • Ni doping affects electron conductivity and cation distribution in Co 3 O 4 catalysts. • MEA with Ni 0.45 Co 2.55 O 4 anode and Pt/C cathode achieved energy efficiency of 69.4% at 300 mA cm−2 and 2.04 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]