The Stability of Electrodes with Intermediate Layer-Induced Catalytic Layer-Matrix Layer Interfaces in Chlorine Evolution Reactions

Durable anodes for industrial chlorine-hydrogen co-production are crucial for achieving sustainable electrolytic chlorine and hydrogen generation. However, the catalytic activity and stability of conventional Dimensionally Stable Snode (DSA) anodes pose challenges for the development of low-energy-consumption and long-life in industry. This study developed a simple industrial-scale method to synthesize a RuSnO_x/IrTaO_x/TM catalyst with interlayer anchoring on a titanium mesh substrate. This catalyst exhibits high chlorine production activity (overpotential of 79 mV) at a current density of 100 mA cm⁻² and stability during accelerated durability test at 2 A cm⁻² (stable for 1000 h). The intermediate layer IrTaO_x elevates the oxidation state of Ru, thereby enhancing reaction activity. Low-valent Ir suppresses Ru peroxidation to prevent leaching. Simultaneously, low-valent Ir protects the titanium substrate from oxidative corrosion, achieving a multifaceted stabilization mechanism. In situ Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicate that this heterostructure catalytic layer enhances catalytic activity and oxidation resistance by modulating the electronic structure and coordination environment of Ru.