Synergism between the gradient dilution work function and the Janus electronic state of Pt-CoPxBr1−x for boosting alkaline seawater electrolysis

Abstract

The hydrogen spillover (HSo) effect of metal-supported electrocatalysts via electronic interactions can remarkably influence their performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). It needs electron-rich supporting metals to promote the adsorption/spillover of protons. However, this electron-enrichment region on metals will make the HSo-HER course contradict the electron-donating oxygen evolution reaction (OER), particularly in proton-poor alkaline seawater electrolytes. Herein, we have demonstrated the gradient dilution work function (Φ) of a Pt-CoP_xBr_1−x nanocone via the introduction of Br and rich P vacancies, and the Pt atoms are confirmed with Janus electron-deficient and electron-rich states in the interface and tip regions by the lightning-rod effect, which promotes the HSo-HER course and OER course. As a result, Pt-CoP_xBr_1−x exhibits outstanding HER and OER activities in alkaline seawater solution, also displaying a low cell voltage. This work emphasizes that synergies between gradient regulation Φ and the Janus electronic state are fundamental in rationalizing efficient metal–support alkaline seawater electrocatalysts.