Metal Organic Frameworks-Derived NiO/NiCo2O4 Heterostructures for Effective Methanol Oxidation Reaction

The electrochemical process of methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), which is closely associated with electrochemical production of formate and hydrogen, is considered a highly viable avenue for advancing renewable energy technologies. Nevertheless, the development and creation of affordable, effective, and durable electrocatalysts for MOR continue to present significant obstacles. In this study, a hierarchical porous NiO/NiCo2O4/NF electrode is fabricated through the integration of solvothermal and thermal oxidation treatments of Ni-MOF-74 and NiCo-Asp. After thoroughly assessing the electrochemical performance for MOR, NiO/NiCo2O4/NF demonstrates a significant current density of 140 mA cm(-2) at 1.6 V (vs. RHE) and a tafel slop of 45.0 mV<middle dot>dec(-1) in 1 M KOH and 0.5 M methanol. The excellent performance of MOR can be ascribed to the hierarchical porous nature that enhances mass and electron transport while offering numerous active sites for electrocatalytic reactions. Additionally, the hetero interface between NiO and NiCo2O4 could further enhance electron transfer rate and reaction kinetics for the MOR. The developed NiO/NiCo2O4/NF electrode shows potential as a viable and economical alternative to Pt-based electrocatalysts for MOR-based applications.