Tuning up catalytical properties of electrochemically prepared nanoconical Co-Ni deposit for HER and OER

Catalysts can be successfully prepared by a simple electrochemical process. Their surface composition distinguishes catalytic activity toward hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions. In this work, uniform Co-Ni cones were synthesized using the onestep method from an electrolyte containing a crystal modifier. Electrodeposited layers were oxidized and/or reduced in the furnace at 100°C. Freshly electrodeposited coating was stored in air atmosphere for seven days. This results in an oxide layer forming on the surface of the catalyst. Changes in the surface composition, confirmed by the XPS method, strongly influenced the wettability, catalytic performance, and size of evolved hydrogen bubbles. The conical Co-Ni surface oxidized in a controlled way possesses the best catalytic activity towards hydrogen and oxygen evolution. Conversely, the spontaneously formed oxide layer decreases the catalytic performance in mentioned reactions compared with the fresh sample. The proper storage of synthesized samples is essential due to their desired catalytic applications. Proposed controlled oxidation can be an accessible way to increase nanomaterials catalytic performance.