Single platinum atoms implanted 2D lateral anion-intercalated metal hydroxides of Ni2(OH)2(NO3)2 as efficient catalyst for high-yield water splitting

In this study, we report new electrocatalysts based on 2D anion-intercalated metal hydroxides of Ni 2 (OH) 2 (NO 3 ) 2 (2D NiHN) and its derivation caused by the implantation of single platinum atoms (Pt SA –2D NiHN). The optimum Pt SA−1.73 –2D NiHN material having low Pt loading of 1.73 wt% exhibits prospective HER activities with an overpotential (η) of 24 mV at 10 mA cm −2 , while the 2D NiNH requires an η of only 280 mV to reach 50 mA cm −2 for OER. The assembly of Pt SA−1.73 –2D NiHN-based cathode and 2D NiHN-based anode to fabricate a two-electrode electrolyzer of Pt SA−1.73 –2D NiHN (−) //2D NiHN (+) allows a cell voltage of only 1.45 V at 10 mA cm −2 for overall water splitting, superior to RuO 2(+) //Pt/C (−) . The device also exhibits prospective long-term stability in 1 M KOH. The achievements suggest that the Pt SA−1.73 –NiHN and 2D NiHN catalysts are two potential candidates for water splitting application. • Single Pt atoms implanted 2D anion-intercalated metal hydroxides is well prepared. • The catalysts enable high-performance HER and OER activities in alkaline medium. • The developed electrolyzer delivers a small cell voltage of 1.45 V at 10 mA cm-2. • The developed electrolyzer shows activity and stability superior to recent reports.