Effect of Auxiliary Ligand in Nickel-based Metal Organic Frameworks Towards Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysis

Abstract

The development of competent and cost-effective electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a crucial area for sustainable energy technology advancement. In this regard, herein we have shown that the inclusion of an auxiliary ligand into the Ni-BTC MOF leads to improved alkaline OER performance compared to pristine Ni-BTC due to ligand-mediated control of the Ni oxidation states, structural stability, and accessible active sites. We have investigated the importance of the ancillary ligand to optimise MOF-based electrocatalysts for the water oxidation reaction.