A groundbreaking discovery at the University of Nottingham may pave the way for more cost-effective hydrogen production. Researchers have identified that the nano-textured surface found on metalworking chips—characterized by minuscule steps and indentations—provides an optimal environment for anchoring platinum or cobalt atoms.
This finding has been pivotal in creating new, efficient electrocatalysts capable of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. Detailed in the Journal of Material Chemistry, this study highlights the potential of repurposing metal waste, such as stainless steel, titanium, and nickel alloys. By applying a fine layer of platinum and cobalt to these surfaces, the team has engineered high-performance electrodes for electrolysis.
The newly developed electrocatalysts demonstrate activity in both hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, which could lead to more stable and efficient hydrogen generation processes through water electrolysis. 
