2D Sandwich-like Co-MOF/MXene Composites as Self-Reconstructive Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysts

Abstract

In recent years, two-dimensional (2D) metal–organic framework (MOF) nanosheets have been regarded as the current hotspot electrocatalysts for energy conversion technologies due to their porous structure, which enables rapid mass transfer and excellent electron transfer to a large number of exposed active metal centers. However, conventionally poor electrical conductivity has hindered their development. Herein, we proposed an in situ hybridization of 2D cobalt 1, 4-benzenedicarboxylate (Co-MOF) with Ti3C2Tx (MXene) nanosheets via a mild hydrothermal reaction strategy, which yields a 2D sandwich-like Co-MOF/MXene composite. It was demonstrated that the compositing of Co-MOF and MXene and their interactions inspire optimal electronic properties, excellent electrical conductivity, and fast charge ion transfer, leading to excellent oxygen evolution reaction activity. In particular, only 390 mV of overpotential was needed at 100 mA cm–2 for the optimal Co-MOF/MXene-40:1 catalyst in 1.0 M KOH. We believe that the in situ compounding of 2D MOF and MXene will open a broader avenue for them in energy conversion fields.