Exploring the Synergistic Electrochemical Benefits of a Niobium-Doped MoO3/Ta2O5 Catalyst for an Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction

This study delves into the synergistic electrochemical advantages of a niobium-doped molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃) nanorods combined with a tantalum pentoxide (Ta₂O₅) catalyst to increase the efficiency of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In light of the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions, the imperative to develop efficient electrocatalysts conducive to water splitting, a critical process in hydrogen production, becomes evident. This investigation involves the synthesis of a niobium-doped MoO₃/Ta₂O₅ composite and comprehensively evaluating its structural, electrochemical, and catalytic properties through various spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. These findings highlight that incorporating niobium markedly enhances the electronic conductivity and availability of active sites within the catalyst, resulting in improved OER performance. Comparative analyses against conventional electrocatalysts underscore that the 8% niobium-doped MoO₃/Ta₂O₅ composite demonstrates lower overpotentials (238 mV ) and higher current densities, indicating its significant potential for practical applications. Furthermore, the robust metal–support interactions enabled by the Ta₂O₅ support stabilize the active phase and increase the catalyst's overall durability. This work yields valuable insights into the mechanisms of OER catalysis involving niobium-doped metal oxides, thereby underscoring the potential of such innovative catalyst designs in advancing hydrogen production technologies.