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Updated: Mar 31, 2026
Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotube with Doped Co and N Atoms and its Catalytic Applications in Hydrogen Production
Published on: December 6, 2021
2D nanosheet molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) modified electrodes explored towards the hydrogen evolution reaction
Samuel J Rowley-Neale1, Dale A C Brownson1, Graham C Smith2
1Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, UK. c.banks@mmu.ac.uk.
Two-dimensional molybdenum disulfide (2D MoS2) nanosheets enhance the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) electrocatalysis on various carbon supports. Performance depends on MoS2 coverage and substrate, crucial for designing new 2D nanosheet electrocatalysts.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Catalysis
Background:
- The Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) is crucial for clean energy production.
- Two-dimensional (2D) materials like molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) show promise as HER electrocatalysts.
- Research has predominantly focused on glassy carbon (GC) supports, limiting understanding of other substrates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate 2D MoS2 nanosheets as electrocatalysts for HER on diverse carbon supports.
- To investigate the influence of different electrode materials on MoS2 performance.
- To understand the effect of MoS2 coverage on electrocatalytic activity and stability.
Main Methods:
- Electrochemical testing of 2D MoS2 nanosheets on edge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG), GC, boron-doped diamond (BDD), and screen-printed graphite electrodes (SPE).
- Systematic variation of MoS2 loading to determine optimal coverage.
- Characterization of active site density and turnover frequency.
Main Results:
- 2D MoS2 nanosheets significantly lower the HER onset potential across all tested carbon supports (EPPG, GC, SPE, BDD).
- The extent of HER onset potential reduction varies with the underlying substrate, indicating substrate-dependent electron transfer kinetics.
- MoS2 electrocatalytic activity is coverage-dependent, with an optimal mass achieving maximum benefit before stability issues arise.
Conclusions:
- 2D MoS2 nanosheets are effective HER electrocatalysts on various carbon supports, not just GC.
- Substrate choice and MoS2 coverage are critical parameters influencing HER performance.
- This study provides essential insights for fabricating and testing 2D nanosheet electrocatalysts for HER applications.
