Core/shell 1T/2H-MoS2 nanoparticle induced synergistic effects for enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction
Driss Mouloua, Thomas Vicart, Nitul S. Rajput, Bouchra Asbani, M. El Marssi, My Alı El Khakani, Mustapha Jouiad
Abstract
This study investigates the photoelectrochemical potential of 1T/2H-MoS 2 nanoparticles synthesized via chemical vapor deposition. The 60 nm nanoparticles, analyzed using SEM, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and XPS, have a high-quality mixed-phase composition. TEM revealed a core–shell structure. A MoS 2 /p-Si photocathode showed a current density of −13.5 ± 1 mA/cm 2 at 0 V and an onset potential of 110 mV, with rapid photoresponse times and an 8 % IPCE at 450 nm. The mixed-phase and core–shell structure enhance electronic and catalytic properties, promising advancements in renewable energy technologies. Green hydrogen is a highly sought-after clean fuel for the next generation of engines aimed at achieving net-zero emissions. Herein, we design and fabricate a mixed-phase core/shell nanoparticles consisting of a semiconducting 2H-MoS 2 core and a metallic 1T-MoS 2 coating. The core/shell exhibits spherical morphology with an average diameter of 60 nm. To leverage this unique structure, we develop a photocathode device composed of 1T/2H-MoS 2 core/shell integrated with p-type silicon to catalyze hydrogen evolution reaction via water splitting driven by solar energy. The core/shell device demonstrates, at zero bias, a remarkable current density of −13.5 ± 1 mA/cm 2 and an onset potential of 110 mV. Additionally, the device exhibited a rapid photoresponse time and a high incident photon-to-current efficiency reaching 80 % at 450 nm. Our findings highlight the synergistic effect of 1T/2H-MoS 2 mixed-phase core/shell structure in developing the next generation of high-efficient photocatalysts for green hydrogen generation.