“…Many earth-abundant and inexpensive oxides based on transition metals are being explored as efficient and potential electrocatalysts for the OER. , Spinel-type oxides (AB 2 O 4 , where A and B are 3d transition metals including Fe, Ni, Co, Mn, Zn, and Cu) are among the classes of oxidation species that have gained much attention − Cobalt-based oxides are frequently used candidates for efficient OER catalysts like Co 3 O 4 because of the mixed valence states of Co metals, abundant reserves, and highly stable and low-cost nature . Defect engineering is a promising approach to regulate the catalysts’ chemical and physical features with oxygen-rich vacancies and enormous specific surface area by a single-step plasma etching procedure for outstanding catalytic performance. ,− Additionally, defect introduction and electrical conductivity improvement are two ways to increase catalytic activity. Exposing many effective active centers for the electrode is also crucial for defining catalytic activity. , Porous nanostructures may facilitate a great surface area and maximum active centers with greater OER and HER performances compared to those of compact nanostructures. − Also, functional site loss is typical for layered electrocatalysts because too much thick layer is exposed thoroughly, allowing the electrocatalytic activity to be improved by synthesizing ultrathin layered composites with atomic-level thickness. , The morphology, unique chemical/physical electronic surface properties, and linkage with the catalytic substrates generating robust interfacial effects were engineered to enhance the electrochemical performances and stability for water splitting. ,, To overcome inadequate exposed active sites and lower electrical conductivity, such oxides of transition metal are usually coated on the metallic or conductive substrate to synthesize hybrid electrocatalysts for water electrolysis .…”