Advanced Co3O4–CuO nano-composite based electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline media

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2019-10, Vol.44 (48), p.26148-26157
• Main Authors: Tahira, Aneela, Ibupoto, Zafar Hussain, Willander, Magnus, Nur, Omer
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Composite metal oxide; Electro-catalyst; Hydrogen evolution reaction
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2019.08.120

In this study, we incorporate a copper impurity into (Co3O4) nanowires precursor that turn them into an active catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction in 1M KOH. The XRD and XPS results are in good agreement and confirmed the formation of Co3O4–CuO nano-composite by wet chemical method. To date, the performance of hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline for the composite catalyst is comparable or superior to cobalt oxide based HER electro-catalysts. The HER catalyst exhibits the lowest Tafel slope of 65 mVdec−1 for the cobalt-based catalysts in alkaline media. A current density of 10 mA/cm2 is achieved at a potential of 0.288 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). The mixed transition metal oxide Co3O4–CuO based HER electro-catalyst is highly stable and durable. The EIS results demonstrates that HER is highly favorable on the Co3O4–CuO due to the relatively small charge transfer resistance (173.20 Ohm) and higher capacitance values (1.97 mF). •Advanced Co3O4–CuO nano-composite for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction.•The excellent stability and durability is demonstrated.•The efficient hydrogen evolution reaction due to small charge transfer resistance.