Ionic liquid-assisted synthesis of Cu 7Te 4 ultrathin nanosheets with enhanced electrocatalytic activity for water oxidation

摘要

AbstractUsing ionic liquids as solvent to synthesize two dimensional ultrathin nanomaterials is a good way to meet the concept of “green” synthesis. Herein, 2.1nm thick Cu7Te4nanosheets were synthesized through ionic liquid-assisted ionothermal route. Ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methyl imidazole chloride ([Bmim]Cl) plays multiple roles in the synthesis process. Benefiting from the enhanced electronic conductivity and much more exposed surface active sites, the 2.1nm thick Cu7Te4nanosheets exhibit higher electrocatalytic activity and durability than their bulk counterpart for water oxidation. This fundamental approach and insight could be expanded to synthesize other two dimensional inorganic nanomaterials with ultrathin structure and improved properties.Graphical abstractDisplay OmittedHighlights?Developing a new strategy to synthesize the ultrathin Cu