Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity of SrCrO3-MWCNT Composite for OER in Alkaline Medium

Abstract

In the current era, preparation of affordable, highly effective, environment friendly and novel electrocatalysts for hydrogen production by water splitting is an important strategy for addressing global energy challenges. Current study presents the synthesis of an innovative, effective and ecofriendly SrCrO₃-MWCNT composite using sonication method. The incorporation of MWCNTs into SrCrO₃ aims to enhance its electrical conductivity, facilitate charge transfer and increase the accessibility of active regions, thus improving its electrocatalytic efficiency for hydrogen production. The physical properties of the fabricated catalysts were analyzed to evaluate their structural and textural characteristics. The SrCrO₃-MWCNT composite exhibited well-defined crystalline structure with high surface area of 151.49 m²/g. The prepared SrCrO₃-MWCNT composite demonstrated notable catalytic activity, showcasing increased electrochemical surface area (ECSA) of 337 cm². The outstanding ECSA of nanocomposite results in reduced overpotential (η = 197 mV) and less Tafel slope of 33 mV/dec at a current density (j) of 10 mA/cm² in alkaline solution. Furthermore, SrCrO₃-MWCNT nanocomposite showed durability for a duration of 50 h and reduced charge transfer resistance of (R_ct) of 1.04 Ω. The extensive surface area, improved ionic diffusion and enhanced electronic conductivity significantly boosted the electrochemical efficiency of the composite, providing novel opportunities in field of sustainable energy production.