The micro/nano hierarchical structured Cu/NiCo coating was prepared on the copper substrate by the two-step electrodeposition and introduced as a potential electrocatalyst to produce hydrogen and oxygen gases through the electrochemical water splitting. The microstructure and chemical composition of the achieved coating was assessed by SEM-EDS. The results showed the formation of Cu micro cone arrays at the first step of electrodeposition, followed by precipitation of the nano sized NiCo particles on these cones. According to EDS maps, there is a uniform distribution of Cu, Ni and Co element through the fabricated coating. The electrocatalytic activity of the Cu/NiCo coating was examined through the linear sweep voltammetry and the results was compared to those of the base copper substrate and Cu layer. A combination of the nano and micro sized crystals in the structure strongly decreased the require overpotential for the water splitting. Consequently, the designed electrocatalyst is promising choice for future applications.
