  Alkoxide-intercalated NiFe-layered double hydroxides were synthesized via the
nonaqueous methanolic route. These nanoplatelets exhibit high crystalline
quality as demonstrated by atomic resolution scanning transmission electron
microscopy combined with electron energy-loss spectroscopy. Moreover, the
presence of the alkoxide moieties has been unambiguously demonstrated by means
of thermogravimetric analysis coupled to a mass spectrometer. These NiFe-LDHs
can be exfoliated in water or organic solvents and processed into homogeneous
ultra-thin films (< 3nm thick) with the assistance of O2-plasma. The study of
their behaviour as water oxidation electrocatalysts has shown an outstanding
performance at basic pHs (small overpotential of ca. 249 mV and Tafel slopes in
the range of 52-55 mV per decade).
