Surface-chemistry-controlled growth of NiBDC on carbon nanotubes governs urea oxidation activity

Abstract

CNT surface chemistry dictates NiBDC growth and UOR performance. –OH groups preserve the CNT structure and enhance electron transfer; –NH₂ triggers carbothermal reduction to Ni⁰, disrupting graphitic order; and pristine CNTs provide weak π–π interactions. The –OH catalyst achieves 10 mA cm⁻² at 1.328 V, establishing a key surface–activity relationship.