Hydrothermal synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes@MoxW1 − xS2 hybrid as non-noble metal electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction. (27th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Wenzhu; Li, Feng; Liu, Yang; Li, Jing; Huo, Hongfei; Li, Rong
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 42:Number 30(2017)
• Page Start: 18774
• Page End: 18784
• Publication Date: 2017-07-27
• Subjects: Multi-walled carbon nanotubes -- MoxW1 − xS2 -- Hydrogen evolution reaction -- Electrochemical; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2017.05.129
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: Here, a facile one-pot hydrothermal method is used to synthesize multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) coated Mox W1 − x S2 hybrid (MWCNTs@Mox W1 − x S2 ). Ultimately, we obtained a material with MWCNTs evenly wrapped by Mox W1 − x S2 . After studying a series of the MWCNTs@Mox W1 − x S2 with different loading amounts and various mole ratios of molybdenum (Mo) and tungsten (W), we found the MWCNTs@Mo0.54 W0.46 S2 (77.3 wt. % Mo0.54 W0.46 S2 content) exhibited the best activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Electrochemical experiments testified that this catalyst propelled the HER with an onset potential lowered to – 0.15 V vs. RHE, large cathode currents and a Tafel slope of ∼68 mV per decade in 0.5 M H2 SO4 electrolyte. Moreover, it was highly enduring in a corrosive acidic solution since the current density of this compound minished a little even if it was cycled 1000 circulations. These findings proved that the MWCNTs@MoxW1 − x S2 was a productive material for the generation of catalysts involving an abundant transition metal, therefore indicated a promising future in the hydrogen economy. Graphical abstract: In this work, we have synthesized a tubular electrocatalyst (MWCNTs@Mox W1 − x S2 ) using a facile hydrothermal method. We also explored the influence of the composition and the loading capacities of Mox W1 − x S2 on the MWCNTs on the activity of the catalyst to hydrogen evolution reaction. Ultimately, it was confirmed that MWCNTs@Mo0.54 W0.46 S2 owned remarkable HER activity and stability. Highlights: The MWCNTs@Mox W1 − x S2 electrocatalyst was easily prepared. The preparation process is in accordance with the principles of green chemistry. MWCNTs improve the HER activity by synergistic effect with Mox W1 − x S2 coating. This electrocatalyst synthesized by hydrothermal method has never been reported. The catalyst exhibits excellent HER activity and high stability.