Modulation engineering of alkaline oxygen evolution reaction based on microwave activation of Ni, Fe bimetal doped MnO2

A simple method has been designed for constructing the coupling structure of m-NiFe@MnO 2 ultra-thin nanosheet for oxygen evolution reaction on nickel foam. Intervention of the active component NiFe hydroxide not only promotes the dissociation of water but also reduces the energy barrier of the intermediate, while the presence of subsequent microwaves accelerates the electron transfer. m-NiFe@MnO 2 showed excellent OER performance. This is prominently manifested in that when the current density reaches 100 mA cm −2 , the overpotential is only 310 mV, which is far better than RuO 2 . The long-term (≥100 h) durability test also further proves its excellent stability. • m-NiFe@MnO 2 ultra-thin nanosheet on nickel foam for OER is prepared. • The ultra-thin nanosheet of MnO 2 ensures a large specific surface area and exposed active sites. • The microwave for a short time promotes the conversion of Ni(OH) 2 to NiOOH. • The synergistic effect from m-NiFe@MnO 2 contribute to the enhanced activity.