NiFe layered double hydroxides as high-performance electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction: recent developments

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a pivotal role in advancing energy conversion and storage technologies, yet its widespread application is hindered by its sluggish kinetics and high overpotential requirements. Although IrO₂ and RuO₂ remain benchmark catalysts for accelerating the OER kinetics, their scarcity and cost drive the exploration of cost-effective alternatives. Notably, NiFe-layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based materials have emerged as promising electrocatalysts in alkaline media, achieving remarkably low overpotentials for scalable applications. Recent advances have focused on optimizing synthesis strategies to enhance the performance and scalability of NiFe-LDH catalysts. This review systematically outlines recent progress in NiFe-LDH electrocatalysts for the OER. First, the fundamental OER mechanism is elucidated to establish a theoretical framework. Subsequently, diverse structural forms of NiFe-LDH materials including alloys, oxides/hydroxides, and their derivatives are critically analysed in terms of their catalytic activity and stability. Key synthesis approaches, including hydrothermal growth, electrodeposition, chemical exfoliation <i>etc.</i>, are also evaluated to highlight their impact on electrocatalysts' properties. Finally, existing challenges and future directions are discussed, emphasizing strategies to further improve catalytic efficiency, durability, and practical applicability. By integrating mechanistic insights, material innovations, and synthetic advancements, this review aims to guide the rational design of next-generation NiFe-LDH catalysts and inspire their broader utilization in sustainable energy systems.