Cu3N nanowire array as a high-efficiency and durable electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction

Abstract

Developing non-precious oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts with high performance and long-term stability has drawn considerable research interest in recent years. In this communication, we report a self-supported Cu₃N nanowire array on copper foam (Cu₃N NA/CF) which is derived from a Cu(OH)₂ nanowire array on copper foam (Cu(OH)₂ NA/CF) through a nitridation process. Intriguingly, this 3D electrode exhibits marvellous OER activity with the need of an overpotential of only 298 mV at a current density of 20 mA cm⁻² in 1.0 M KOH. In addition, the obtained electrocatalyst is capable of maintaining its high performance for at least 25 h under a static current density of 20 mA cm⁻².