Tuning Multimetallic Phosphide Nanorods and Hetero-Nanostructures for Electrocatalysis

One-dimensional nanomaterials hold significant potential for efficient electrocatalysis in various energy storage and conversion processes. We employed Co₂P nanorods as templates to synthesize multicomponent nanomaterials through a series of strategic steps. First, multimetallic phosphide CoMPx nanorods (NRs) were synthesized, where M represents Fe, Ni, Mn, Cu, or their binary combinations. This was achieved via seed-mediated growth followed by thermal post-treatment. The synergistic effects of these components were investigated for enhanced electrocatalytic activity, particularly in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Second, a series of Co₂P/Pd nanorods with tunable shell thicknesses were synthesized through a carefully controlled seed-mediated method. Optimal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance was achieved in specific heterostructures, benefiting from strain and ligand effects. Finally, Pd shell surfaces were decorated with Au dendrites to enhance CO tolerance without blocking Pd surface active sites, resulting in a unique multi-interfacial structure with significantly improved electrocatalytic oxidation reaction (EOR) activity.