Confining the electrodeposition of FeCoNi oxide within a Nafion layer for the fabrication of stable oxygen evolution electrocatalysts

Electrochemical water splitting is a promising method for decarbonizing numerous industries but requires efficient and stable electrolyzers. While transition metal oxide catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction are active, they often experience stability issues. To address this, we modified the classic electrodeposition process by confining it within a Nafion layer, resulting in the creation of a FeNiCo oxide on a Ni foam support. This promising electrocatalyst can operate at high current densities (300 mA cm−2) during start-up and shut-down cycles for 8 h a day over 32 days due to good adherence of the catalyst, its composition, and the presence of amorphous/crystalline interfaces. This makes it suitable for directly integrating intermittent renewable energy sources with electrolyzers. This could prove especially useful for remote deployment of off-grid systems where renewable energy sources can be combined with electrolyzers and fuel cells for continuous electricity supply and eliminate the need for diesel generators.