FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4 composite for enhancing electrocatalytic performances and overall water splitting application

Rational design of inexpensive and efficient electrocatalyst for overall water splitting remains a significant challenge in the field of renewable energy. In this study, highly efficient FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4 composite electrocatalyst was rationally designed on nickel foam (NF). This catalyst benefits from large electrochemical active surface area, rapid charge transfer capacity, and robust synergistic effect. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated superior hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity, characterized by low overpotential, small Tafel slope and good durability. Moreover, when utilized as an anode and cathode, the FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4/NF catalyst achieved current density of 10 mA cm−2 at low driving voltage (1.60 V) and displayed good stability during long-term water splitting operation, surpassing Pt-C/NF||RuO2/NF and most other reported NiCo2O4-based electrocatalysts. This research presents novel approach to the development of efficient spinel-based electrocatalyst in overall water splitting area. •FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4 composite electrocatalyst was rationally designed on nickel foam.•FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4 demonstrated superior HER and OER performances.•FeOOH-rGO/NiCo2O4 as anode and cathode only required low cell voltage of 1.60 V@10 mA cm−2 and exhibited good stability.