CoCuFe-MoS2/rGO as pioneer electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)

Abstract

This study introduces a novel and innovative approach by designing a trimetallic nanocomposite catalyst for enhancing the ORR. The unique trimetallic structure significantly improves catalytic performance and clearly distinguishes this work from previous studies. Compared to conventional platinum-based and bimetallic catalysts, this trimetallic system offers superior activity, enhanced stability, and better resistance to degradation, making it a promising candidate for high-performance electrocatalytic applications. In this study, MoS₂/reduced graphene oxide (MoS₂/rGO) nanosheets are synthesized via a hydrothermal method, followed by the deposition of copper-cobalt-iron (CuCoFe) transition trimetallic hybrids onto the ultrathin MoS₂/rGO substrate through a straightforward ethylene glycol reduction process. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis confirms the uniform distribution and consistent dispersion of CuCoFe nanoparticles on the catalyst support surface. The nanocomposite demonstrates exceptional catalytic performance for the ORR under alkaline conditions, attributed to the synergistic interaction between CuCoFe trimetallic alloys and the MoS₂/rGO substrate. Key electrochemical metrics include a high current density of 3.64 mA cm⁻², a half-wave potential of − 0.118 V vs. Ag/AgCl, and an onset potential of − 0.052 V vs. Ag/AgCl. Moreover, the CuCoFeMoS₂/rGO electrode exhibits remarkable durability (90.03%) and methanol resistance (100%), significantly outperforming the Pt/C benchmark (61.58% and 79.96%, respectively). The analysis of the Koutecky–Levich (K–L) plots indicates a four-electron transfer process. The synergistic effects of rGO’s excellent conductivity and high aspect ratio, alongside MoS₂’s catalytic properties and the introduction of CuCoFe transition trimetallic hybrids, position CuCoFeMoS₂/rGO as a promising candidate for high-performance electrocatalytic applications.