Ultrafine Iridium Nanoparticles Anchored on Co-Based Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheets for Robust Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Media

Abstract

A highly promising electrocatalyst has been designed and prepared for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). This involves incorporating well-dispersed Ir nanoparticles into a cobalt-based metal-organic framework known as Co-BPDC [Co(bpdc)(H₂O)₂, BPDC: 4,4'-biphenyldicarboxylic acid]. Ir@Co-BPDC demonstrates exceptional HER activity in alkaline media, surpassing both commercial Pt/C and recent noble-metal catalysts. Theoretical results indicate that electron redistribution, induced by interfacial bonds, optimizes the adsorption energy of water and hydrogen, thereby enhancing our understanding of the superior properties of Ir@Co-BPDC for HER.