Efficient and Affordable Electrocatalyst Produces Clean Hydrogen and Oxygen from Water

Researchers from Dalian University of Technology in China have developed a durable and inexpensive electrocatalyst made of nickel, iron, and silicon that significantly reduces the energy required to generate clean hydrogen and oxygen from water. The catalyst, known as ferric-nickel silicide (FeNiSi) alloy, is bifunctional, meaning it can efficiently produce both hydrogen and oxygen gas. The manufacturing process involves heating natural clay magadiite with iron chloride and nickel chloride to create a metallic silicate, which is then reduced using magnesium and salt to form the FeNiSi alloy. The electrocatalyst demonstrated promising performance and durability, offering new opportunities for renewable energy conversion.