Poly(3-thiophenemalonic acid) Modified NiFe Layered Double Hydroxide Electrocatalyst for Stable Seawater Oxidation at an Ampere-Scale Current Density

Abstract

Seawater electrolysis shows potential for sustainable hydrogen production but faces challenges from the high concentration of Cl − , which leads to corrosion and performance degradation. In this study, we prepared a NiFe layered double hydroxide (NiFe LDH) nanoarray modified with poly(3thiophenemalonic acid) (PTPA) on Ni foam (NiFe LDH@ PTPA/NF) to enhance alkaline seawater oxidation (ASO). PTPA serves as a conductive and protective layer, improving electrical conductivity and repelling Cl − to increase stability. The electrode demonstrated stable operation at 1000 mA cm −2 with low overpotential for 600 h, generating minimal chlorine. In situ Raman spectroscopy confirmed that PTPA facilitates active site formation and provides Cl − protection, while inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry analysis indicated reduced Ni and Fe leaching. This study highlights the potential of conductive polymers to enhance ASO performance and durability.