High performance in water splitting(OER) mediated by porphyrin coupled with Polyoxometalates in COF: A breakthrough in electrocatalysis

The advancement of water–splitting technologies and renewable energy systems necessitates the development of robust and efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) based on metal-free porphyrins and polyoxometalates (POMs), demonstrate exceptional electrocatalytic performance for OER, offering a sustainable approach for efficient oxygen generation. In this study, an innovative COF (TTCMPP–POM) was synthesized by integrating TTCMPP and POM unites through straight forward condensation process. The hybrid material synergistically combines the catalytic and electronic properties of POM known for their stability and high OE activity, with the electron donating and redox flexible capabilities of porphyrins. Comprehensive spectroscopic and microscopic analyses confirmed the stability and structure of the TTCMPP–POM (COF). Electrochemical investigations revealed the superior OER performance of TTCMPP–POM (COF), which exhibited a lower overpotential (404 mV) at 10 mAcm⁻² compared to TTCMPP (415 mV), POM (503 mV), and RuO₂ (394 mV). Furthermore, TTCMPP–POM (COF) achieved an impressive Tafel slope of68.84 mVdec⁻¹, out performing TTCMPP (88.45 mVdec⁻¹), POM (142.18 mVdec⁻¹), and RuO₂ (134.62 mVdec⁻¹). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electroactive surface area (ECSA) analyses confirmed enhanced charge transfer properties of TTCMPP–POM (COF). These results establish TTCMPP–POM (COF) as a highly effective and modular electrocatalyst, paving the way for its applications in renewable energy technologies.