An efficient NiFe binary alloy anode catalyst for direct borohydride fuel cells

•An efficient NiFe binary alloy catalyst has been fabricated by simple electro-deposition.•The reaction site and electron distribution of NiFe are changed greatly due to introduction Fe.•The NiFe catalyst exhibits excellent activity, selectivity, and stability to BOR.•The DBFC with NiFe catalyst anode can deliver the peak power density of 540 mW cm−2 at 298 K.