A durable and efficient electrocatalyst for saline water splitting with current density exceeding 2000 mA cm -2

TL;DR

This paper reports a novel platinum-based electrocatalyst with high activity, durability, and cost-effectiveness for saline water splitting, achieving over 2000 mA/cm² current density, suitable for industrial hydrogen production.

Contribution

The development of a scalable, low-cost Pt/Ni-Mo electrocatalyst with record-high current density and durability in saline electrolytes for practical water electrolysis.

Findings

Achieved 2000 mA/cm² current density at 113 mV overpotential.

Demonstrated high durability in harsh conditions including seawater and high temperature.

Proved feasibility in a commercial membrane electrode assembly stack.

Abstract

Water electrolysis is promising for industrial hydrogen production to achieve a sustainable and green hydrogen economy, but the high cost of the technology limits its market share. Developing efficient yet economic electrocatalysts is crucial to decrease the cost of electricity and electrolytic cell. Meanwhile, electrolysis in seawater electrolyte can further reduce feedstock cost. Here we synthesize a type of electrocatalyst where trace precious metals are strongly anchored on corrosion-resistive matrix. As an example, the produced Pt/Ni-Mo electrocatalyst only needs an overpotential of 113 mV to reach an ultrahigh current density of 2000 mA cm-2 in saline-alkaline electrolyte, standing as the best performance so far. It shows high activity and long durability in various electrolytes and under harsh conditions, including strong alkaline and simulated seawater electrolytes, and under elevated temperatures up to 80 degree Celsius). This electrocatalyst is produced on a large scale at low cost and shows good performance in a commercial membrane electrode assembly stack, demonstrating its feasibility for practical water electrolysis