Construction of MoP/MoS₂ Core-shell Structure Electrocatalyst for Boosting Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

Hydrogen energy stands out as one of the most promising alternative energy sources due to its cleanliness and renewability. Electrocatalytic water splitting offers a sustainable pathway for hydrogen production. However, the kinetic rate of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is sluggish, emphasizing the critical need for stable and highly active electrocatalysts to facilitate HER and enhance reaction efficiency. Transition metal-based catalysts have garnered attention for their favorable catalytic activity in electrochemical hydrogen evolution in alkaline electrolytes. In this investigation, flower-like nanorods of MoS₂ were directly synthesized in situ on a nickel foam substrate, followed by the formation of MoP/MoS₂-nickel foam (NF) heterostructures through high-temperature phosphating in a tube furnace environment. The findings reveal that MoP/MoS₂-NF-450 exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic performance in an alkaline milieu, demonstrating a low overpotential (90 mV) and remarkable durability at a current density of 10 mA/cm². Comprehensive analysis indicates that the introduction of phosphorus (P) atoms enhances the synergistic effect with MoS₂, while the distinctive flower-like nanorod structure of MoS₂ exposes more active sites. Moreover, the interface between the MoP/MoS₂ heterostructure and NF facilitates electron transfer during hydrogen evolution, thereby enhancing electrocatalytic performance. The design and synthesis of such catalysts offer a valuable approach for the development of high-performance hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts.

Keywords

MoP/MoS₂ / Core-shell structure / Heterostructure / Synergistic effect / Hydrogen evolution reaction

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