Spatial configuration of Fe–Co dual-sites boosting catalytic intermediates coupling toward oxygen evolution reaction

Abstract

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is the pivotal obstacle of water splitting for hydrogen production. Dual-sites catalysts (DSCs) are considered exceeding single-site catalysts due to the preternatural synergetic effects of two metals in OER. However, appointing the specific spatial configuration of dual-sites toward more efficient catalysis still remains a challenge. Herein, we constructed two configurations of Fe–Co dual-sites: stereo Fe–Co sites (stereo-Fe-Co DSC) and planar Fe–Co sites (planar-Fe-Co DSC). Remarkably, the planar-Fe-Co DSC has excellent OER performance superior to stereo-Fe-Co DSC. DFT calculations and experiments including isotope differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, in situ infrared spectroscopy, and in situ Raman reveal the *O intermediates can be directly coupled to form *O–O* rather than *OOH by both the DSCs, which could overcome the limitation of four electron transfer steps in OER. Especially, the proper Fe–Co distance and steric direction of the planar-Fe-Co benefit the cooperation of dual sites to dehydrogenate intermediates into *O–O* than stereo-Fe-Co in the rate-determining step. This work provides valuable insights and support for further research and development of OER dual-site catalysts.