Exposure of active edge structure for electrochemical H2 evolution from VS2/MWCNTs hybrid catalysts. (20th December 2018) - Zhang, Wenqing
Abstract: Developing highly efficient and stable non-noble-metal catalysts for electrochemical hydrogen production is the main subject toward energy conversion systems. In this work, the vanadium disulfide/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VS2 /MWCNTs) is synthesized by a facile hydrothermal process. The introducing of MWCNTs could provide abundant sites for the anchoring of VS2 to expose more edge structure. Besides, the electron transfer from MWCNTs to VS2 could increase the electron density of VS2 and further enhance the HER performance of the composites. The optimized VS2 /MWCNTs composite exhibits excellent HER properties with a small η10 of 123 mV and low Tafel slope of 40 mV dec −1 . Meanwhile, the cobwebby network of the hybrid could significantly improve the electron transfer and durability of the catalyst. This work provides an available route for further application of the transition metal dichalcogenides based nanostructure. Graphical abstract: The VS2 /MWCNTs composites are fabricated by a hydrothermal process. The MWCNTs could facilitate to expose the edge of the VS2 and the transfer electron to VS2, which enhance the HER activity of the hybrid significantly. Highlights: The MWCNTs could provide abundant sites for the anchoring of VS2 to expose more edge structure. The electron transfer from MWCNTs to VS2 could improve the electron density of VS2 and further enhance the HER performance. The formation of the network by MWCNTs makes the hybrid more stable in acid. The VS2 /MWCNTs displays excellent activity compare with other transition metal dichalcogenides based catalysts.