NiCoP nanoleaves array for electrocatalytic alkaline H2 evolution and overall water splitting

Abstract The development of non-precious, high-efficient and durable electrocatalysts for H2 evolution in alkaline media is highly desirable. Herein we report NiCoP nanoleaves array vertically grown on Ni foam for H2 evolution and overall water splitting via simple hydrothermal treatment and phosphorization. The self-supported NiCoP nanoleaves architecture contributes to more exposed active sites, the smaller contact resistance between catalyst and substrate, faster ion diffusion and electron transfer. As a result, the optimized electrode requires only overpotentials of 98 and 173 mV to achieve current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH, respectively. Besides, used as both anode and cathode simultaneously, the electrode delivers current densities of 100 and 200 mA cm−2 at cell voltages of only 1.8 and 1.87 V, respectively. Moreover, the relatively high efficiency of about 11.4% for solar-driven water splitting further illustrates the application of our catalyst to sustainable development based on green technologies.