Ionic liquid-assisted synthesis of Cu7Te4 ultrathin nanosheets with enhanced electrocatalytic activity for water oxidation

Using ionic liquids as solvent to synthesize two dimensional ultrathin nanomaterials is a good way to meet the concept of "green" synthesis. Herein, 2.1 nm thick Cu7Te4 nanosheets were synthesized through ionic liquid-assisted ionothermal route. Ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methyl imidazole chloride ([Bmim] Cl) plays multiple roles in the synthesis process. Benefiting from the enhanced electronic conductivity and much more exposed surface active sites, the 2.1 nm thick Cu7Te4 nanosheets exhibit higher electrocatalytic activity and durability than their bulk counterpart for water oxidation. This fundamental approach and insight could be expanded to synthesize other two dimensional inorganic nanomaterials with ultrathin structure and improved properties.