Abstract:
This study investigates the electrochemical behaviour of MOF-derived porous carbon (PC) and
its ruthenium-functionalized counterpart (Ru@NPC) for water splitting (WS) applications.
MOF-5-NH2 was synthesized solvothermally and pyrolyzed to produce NPC, which was
subsequently functionalized with Ru nanoparticles. Comprehensive characterization using
XRD, XPS, SEM, TGA, and TEM surface area analysis revealed the successful conversion of
MOF-5-NH2 into highly porous carbon with well-distributed Ru nanoparticles. The XRD
patterns confirmed the crystalline structure of MOF-5-NH2, while the broad amorphous peaks
of NPC and Ru@NPC indicated the formation of graphitic carbon.
Electrochemical performance was evaluated through linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), cyclic
voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Ru@NPC
demonstrated superior activity in (HER), with overpotentials of 81.6 mV at a current density
of -10 mA/cm², significantly outperforming NPC (436 mV. Ru@NPC had a lower charge
transfer resistance (Rct) than NPC, according to the EIS data., highlighting the enhanced
electron transfer facilitated by Ru nanoparticles. Additionally, Tafel slopes of 51 mV/dec⁻¹
(HER) for Ru@NPC further confirmed its superior catalytic activity.
The study demonstrates the potential of Ru-functionalized MOF-derived porous carbon as a
long-lasting and effective electrocatalyst for applications involving sustainable energy.
