Modulating carbon quantum dots using multi-heteroatom doping as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for efficient oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions in alkaline electrolytes

Abstract

We report a straightforward method for the synthesis of multi-heteroatom doped carbon quantum dots (Si, N, P-CQDs). The thus obtained Si, N, P-CQD solution exhibits exceptional bifunctional electrocatalytic performance for oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions (OER and HER) in alkaline solution, offering a cost-effective alternative to noble metals. The DFT calculations further confirm that Si incorporation creates optimal adsorption sites and electronic configurations for improved OER and HER.