Research progress of synthesis of metal organic framework derived CoSe₂-based electrocatalysts for overall water splitting

Hydrogen energy is considered as the most ideal alternative renewable energy of fossil energy in the future. Electrochemical water splitting is the most effective approach to produce hydrogen. Design and development of high-efficient, stable and low-cost electrocatalyst is of significant urgence and importance to realize the large-scale production of hydrogen and oxygen from water splitting. Transition metal chalcogenides have become ideal electrocatalysts for water splitting due to their intrinsic electrocatalytic activities and abundant chemical phase compositions, among which CoSe₂ with layered structure is the most representative transition metal selenides. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) possess highly-ordered porous structures and large specific surface area. The MOF-derived CoSe₂ electrocatalysts can inherit the structural advantages of their MOF precursors. These kinds of MOF-derived synthetic methods are the most effective method to further improve the electrocatalytic activity of water splitting. This review summarizes the recent significant advances of MOF derived CoSe₂-based electrocatalysts for overall water splitting. The crystal structure and phase transformation of CoSe₂ are briefly introduced, and the synthetic methods of MOF derived CoSe₂-based electrocatalysts are described. Furthermore, the effective ways to enhance the performance of hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction of MOF derived CoSe₂-based electrocatalysts are emphatically elucidated. Finally, future research perspectives of MOF derived CoSe₂-based electrocatalysts in the field of water splitting are prospected.