Morphology and surface chemistry engineering toward pH-universal catalysts for hydrogen evolution at high current density

Abstract Large-scale implementation of electrochemical hydrogen production requires several fundamental issues to be solved, including understanding the mechanism and developing inexpensive electrocatalysts that work well at high current densities. Here we address these challenges by exploring the roles of morphology and surface chemistry, and develop inexpensive and efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution. Three model electrocatalysts are flat platinum foil, molybdenum disulfide microspheres, and molybdenum disulfide microspheres modified by molybdenum carbide nanoparticles. The last catalyst is highly active for hydrogen evolution independent of pH, with low overpotentials of 227 mV in acidic…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 51722206, JCYJ20170307140956657
• DA
  Development and Reform Commission of Shenzhen Municipality

  Awards: JCYJ20170307140956657, 51722206
• SF
  Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program

  Award: JCYJ20170307140956657