Dense MoS<sub>2</sub>/CoS<sub>2</sub> Heterointerfaces with Optimized Electronic Structure for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Yuanchu Zhu, Jing Yao, Lina Bai, Wenchao Zhang, Wei Wang, Xinzhi Ma, Lili Wu
Abstract
Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) is considered as a promising electrochemical catalyst for hydrogen generation. However, insufficient exposed active sites and poor conductivity severely impede its large-scale applications. Herein, the heterogeneous MoS 2 /CoS 2 electrocatalyst was grown in situ on carbon cloth. The synergistic interaction between CoS 2 and MoS 2 occurring at the dense heterointerfaces grants the hybrid higher catalytic activities than single components, thereby speeding up hydrogen production rates. After annealing, the composite exhibits an ultralow overpotential of 67 mV at 10 mA cm –2 and a small Tafel slope of 70 mV dec –1 in 1 M KOH due to the improved conductivity and intimate connection between MoS 2 and CoS 2 . Furthermore, it maintains an excellent cycle durability of 65 h without obvious attenuation at 20 mA cm –2 . In-situ shielding tests reveal the main active sites coming from MoS 2 rather than CoS 2 . On the basis of experimental measurements and theoretical calculations, CoS 2 should work as the electron donor in the HER process and improve not only H 2 O adsorption but also H 2 emission behaviors. The excellent hydrogen evolution performance of annealed-MoS 2 /CoS 2 /CC composite indicates that the present design is a prospective option for developing low-cost and efficient HER electrocatalysts in alkaline electrolytes.