Porous CuCo2O4 architecture derived from metal-organic frameworks as a high–performance electrode for the oxygen evolution reaction

Water electrolysis is a promising and sustainable route for clean hydrogen production, although its large-scale application is limited by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). This study reports the synthesis of a novel MOF-derived CuCo₂O₄ electrocatalyst with a porous coral-reef-like morphology. Structural and physicochemical analyses confirmed the formation of a pure spinel phase. In 1.0 M KOH, the catalyst exhibited excellent OER performance, achieving a low overpotential of 317 mV at 10 mA cm⁻², a Tafel slope of 49 mV dec⁻¹, and high stability over 12 h of continuous operation. The superior activity is attributed to the synergistic interaction between Cu and Co species and the high surface area inherited from the MOF precursor. Compared with previously reported CuCo₂O₄-based electrocatalysts, the material demonstrates competitive or improved performance, highlighting its potential as an efficient and low-cost catalyst for sustainable hydrogen production through water electrolysis.