Insight toward the role of Fe in layered Ni(OH)(2) for electrochemical oxidations of water and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

Abstract

5-hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation reaction (HMFOR) has been considered as promising anodic reaction alternating oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The introduction of Fe into layered nickel hydroxide has been effective strategy to enhance performance of OER as well as HMFOR. However, considering that HMFOR and OER are competitive with each other, it is hardly understandable how Fe simultaneously enhances both reactions. Herein, we provide an insight toward the role of Fe in the layered Ni(OH)(2) in both oxidation reactions. While the OER activity of the layered Ni(OH)2 electrocatalyst has volcanic relation with Fe content, the HMFOR activity was highest in the Fe-free Ni(OH)(2).