Advanced Electrocatalytic Performance of Ni-Based Materials for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Water splitting is an efficient and effective route toward regenerative hydrogen energy. In this study, we reported the preparation of pure Ni nanoplates by using two-dimensional Ni–Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as the precursor. The Ni@Pt core–shell nanoplates composites have been successfully prepared by partially replacing the Ni with Pt. Meanwhile, Ni/rGO composites can be prepared by combining Ni nanoplates with graphene oxide. The electrocatalytic activities of Ni@Pt core–shell nanoplates and Ni/rGO composites toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline media are investigated, revealing that Ni/rGO achieved a low overpotential of 0.33 V at 10 mA cm–2 and Tafel slope of 68 mV dec–1. Ni@Pt core–shell nanoplates exhibit a lower overpotential of 0.29 V (10 mA cm–2) and smaller Tafel slope of 52 mV dec–1. Owing to the remarkable electrocatalytic properties, the obtained materials could be promising catalysts with low-cost and high catalytic performance.