Synthesis of 3D-MoO₂ microsphere supported MoSe₂ as an efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Non-noble-metal electrocatalysts are crucial for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
• Developing efficient and stable electrocatalysts remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel 3D-MoO₂ microsphere supported MoSe₂ electrocatalyst.
• To evaluate its performance for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic media.

Main Methods:

• Facile hydrothermal synthesis followed by selenylation treatment.
• Electrochemical characterization including onset potential, overpotential, Tafel slope, and stability tests.

Main Results:

• The synthesized MoO₂/MoSe₂ exhibited excellent HER catalytic activity.
• Achieved a low onset potential of -101 mV vs RHE and an overpotential of 167 mV at 10 mA cm^-2.
• Demonstrated outstanding stability in 0.5 mol L^-1 H₂SO₄.

Conclusions:

• The 3D-MoO₂/MoSe₂ composite is a promising non-noble-metal electrocatalyst for HER.
• The synergistic effect between MoO₂ and MoSe₂ enhances catalytic performance and stability.