Insight into the Coupling of HgS and CuO with Metal-Organic Frameworks Support in Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

Abstract

This study investigates the coupling of mercury sulfide (HgS) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as a support material for enhancing the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The integration of HgS and CuO into the MOF framework aims to leverage the unique electronic and structural properties of both the nanoparticles and the MOFs to improve catalytic performance. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), particularly ZIF-67, are investigated for their potential to catalyze water-splitting reactions due to their high porosity and large specific surface areas. The strategic incorporation of HgS and CuO into ZIF-67 significantly enhances its electrocatalytic properties, resulting in remarkable performance metrics: a low overpotential of 246 mV at 10 mA/cm², a Tafel slope of 123 mV/dec, an expanded electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of 23.56 cm², and a reduced charge transfer resistance of 34.86 Ω. This integration enhances porosity and increases active surface area, which is crucial for improved catalytic performance. This investigation introduces an innovative methodology for fabricating highly efficient electrocatalysts, positioning HgS/CuO/ZIF-67 as a promising candidate for oxygen evolution reactions in alkaline media. The findings highlight the potential of this novel nanocomposite in future clean energy applications, particularly in the realm of water-splitting technologies.