A noble and single source precursor for the synthesis of metal-rich sulphides embedded in an N-doped carbon framework for highly active OER electrocatalysts

Abstract

Here, we demonstrate a green and environment-friendly pyrolysis route for the synthesis of metal-rich sulphide embedded in an N-doped carbon (NC) framework in the absence of sulphide ions (S²⁻). The metal–chelate complex (tris(ethylenediamine) metal(II) sulfate) serves as a new and single source precursor for the synthesis of earth abundant and non-precious hybrid structures such as metal-rich sulphides Co₉S₈@NC and Ni₃S₂@NC when M^II = Co²⁺ and Ni²⁺ and counter sulphate (SO₄²⁻) ions are the source of S. Both the hybrids show superior OER activity as compared to commercial RuO₂.