Work

Ruthenium modulated Ni-Co pyrophosphate architectures enabling accelerated oxygen evolution in anion exchange membrane electrolyzer

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The development of efficient and durable electrocatalysts remains crucial for sustainable production of hydrogen via water electrolysis. Herein, we report a ruthenium-modified nickel-cobalt pyrophosphate [(NiCo)(P 2 O 7 )] catalyst (Ru-NCP) as a class leading oxygen evolution electrode under alkaline conditions and its application in anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE). The NiCo 2 O 4 precursor was transformed into a pyrophosphate framework through phosphidation, followed by Ru deposition and thermal reduction under Ar/H 2 . Structural analyses (XRD, Raman, TEM, XPS) confirmed the formation of the (NiCo)(P 2 O 7 ) lattice and Ru-induced modulation of metal oxidation states. Electrochemical studies revealed an overpotential of 1.567 V at 100 mA cm -2 and stable operation at 400 mA cm -2 for 24 h in 1.0 M KOH. Integrated into an AEMWE, Ru-NCP achieved 1.6 A cm -2 at 4.5 V with extended durability. The superior performance arises from Ru-mediated electronic reconfiguration and enhanced active site accessibility within the pyrophosphate matrix. • Ru-NCP shows superior OER activity in alkaline media. • Hydrothermal + phosphidation + Ru growth enables robust catalyst. • Integrated AEMWE achieves 1.6 A cm -2 at 4.5 V in 3 M KOH. • Ru modulates Ni/Co states, enhancing adsorbate evolution pathway.

Source: Materials Today Sustainability

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtsust.2026.101380