Integrating rGO nanosheets into CuCrO2 nanoparticles for improved water splitting efficiency

The world energy demand and its consumption are growing day by day. The main energy sources (fossil fuels) are causing environmental pollution that is challenging for the world. Thus, it is critical to find renewable energy sources to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Electrochemical water splitting is recognized method of generating renewable energy. However, improving water splitting requires the development of electrode materials of extraordinary efficacy. This study describes the hydrothermal method used to prepare hybrid CuCrO₂/rGO. The CuCrO₂/rGO nanocomposite was characterized using a variety of physical methods. In contrast to pure CuCrO₂ (58 ± 0.037 mV dec⁻¹), electrochemical testing of CuCrO₂/rGO nanocomposite in an alkaline solution (1 M KOH) demonstrates remarkable catalytic properties such as a minimal overpotential (η) of 245 ± 0.023 mV at 10 mA cm⁻² and Tafel slope of (37 ± 0.005) mV dec⁻¹. CuCrO₂/rGO demonstrated outstanding stability (30h) and an electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of 788.75 cm². The large surface area and better structural features can be attributed to increased efficiency. This study also highlights the nanocomposite shows substantial potential for OER and various electrochemical processes due to fast electron transport, remarkable durability, and excellent electrical conductivity.