Dual-ligand surface engineering of Ni-based nanostructures for efficient urea electrooxidation via Ni 3+ activation and charge-transfer modulation

Key Points

• The research aims to enhance urea electrooxidation performance through dual-ligand surface engineering of Ni-based nanostructures.
• Utilized glutaric acid for surface engineering of Ni material.
• Engineered Ni material to increase surface defects and electronically modulate properties.
• Assessed urea oxidation performance using the Ni/Ga catalyst at a specified current density.
• Achieved a low potential of 0.49 V vs. SCE at 10 mA cm−2 for urea oxidation.
• Demonstrated high stability of the Ni/Ga catalyst under operational conditions.