Scientists demonstrate catalyst activation and degradation during oxygen evolution reaction in hydrous iridium oxides

Researchers from Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin and the Fritz-Haber-Institut have provided groundbreaking insights into the mechanisms of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and iridium (Ir) dissolution in hydrous iridium oxides (am-hydr-IrOx), crucial for advancing water electrolysis technologies. Using advanced spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT), they introduced a nanosheet model that better represents the short-range structure of am-hydr-IrOx. Their findings revealed that iridium dissolution, a key limiting factor in catalyst durability, occurs spontaneously even at potentials below OER activation, challenging previous assumptions. This dual-mechanistic framework underscores the interplay between activity and stability in precious metal catalysts. The results pave the way for designing more efficient and durable anode materials, enhancing the potential of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) water electrolysis for sustainable hydrogen production.

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