Following the structural adaptation of CoFe-based electrocatalysts for alkaline water splitting using operando high energy X-ray diffraction

The alkaline water splitting and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) using Co-based electrocatalysts is a promising approach to produce green H2 using electricity from renewable energies. However, detailed operando mechanistic understanding of the catalytic role of Fe and the decisive properties leading to enhanced and stable OER activity are yet missing. In this experiment, we aim to clarify the influence of Fe addition to Co3O4 electrocatalysts on their structural adaptations to the OER conditions using operando high-energy X-ray diffraction (HE-XRD). In particular, we will reveal how the composition will determine the reversible (near-surface) restructuring, the microstrain as well as the potential-induced lattice strain. We will investigate promising Co3-xFexO4 electrocatalysts and will contribute to the understanding of decisive interfacial properties to design active, stable electrocatalysts for industrially-relevant alkaline electrolyzers.