MCUT Research

nature sustainability/ 2025, vol. 8, p.793–805

Spin crossover-driven diiron electrocatalyst boosts sustainable water oxidation

Main authors: Ching-Wei Tung, Xiao-Cheng Zeng, Hao-Ming Chen/MCUT/ CUHK/NTU

A diiron electrocatalyst, [Fe₂(µ-O)(µ-OH)(L1)₂], was developed for efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER). It exhibits high activity (TOF 20.2 s⁻¹, overpotential 184 mV at 10 mA cm⁻²) and excellent stability (>1000 h). The catalyst forms via spin crossover–driven dimerization, enhancing metal–ligand covalency and enabling efficient water oxidation. (論文連結)

This study reports a highly active and stable diiron electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction using earth-abundant iron. The catalyst shows low overpotential, high activity, and long-term stability, offering a scalable strategy for clean energy technologies such as water electrolysis and renewable energy storage.

This research supports the global transition to sustainable energy by enabling efficient and low-cost water oxidation catalysts based on earth-abundant metals. The findings may advance green hydrogen production, renewable energy storage, and carbon-neutral fuel technologies, contributing to energy security, industrial innovation, and global carbon reduction efforts.