Surfactant-free colloidal strategies for highly dispersed and active supported IrO2 catalysts: Synthesis and performance evaluation for the oxygen evolution reaction

• We synthesize surfactant-free Ir nanoparticles in different solvents. compare the performance of OER catalysts made from these colloids. demonstrate that high dispersion can be reached a wide range metal loadings. show for reaching such dispersion, colloidal stability as well support respective solvent is key. Water electrolysis pivotal technology to drive energy transition towards system based on renewable resources. The scarce crucial element synthesis heterogeneous oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Carbon supported oxide obtained (NPs) synthesized alkaline methanol (MeOH), ethanol (EtOH), and ethylene glycol (EG) are investigated compared. comparison independent techniques electron microscopy (TEM), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), electrochemistry allows shedding light parameters affect active phase initial catalytic activity. dispersions suitable develop with little NP agglomeration carbon support. Due phase, activities more than 400 A g ?1 at 1.5 V RHE when using model While common EG requires flocculation re-dispersion leading loss, main difference between related dispersibility material. choice monoalcohol determines maximum achieved loading without detrimental particle agglomeration. This simple consideration catalyst design readily assist implementation relevant materials technical applications significantly improved catalysts.