A 3D porous Ni-CeO₂ nanosheet array as a highly efficient electrocatalyst toward alkaline hydrogen evolution.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is crucial for clean energy.
• Developing efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts is essential.
• Nickel-based materials show promise but require optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly efficient electrocatalyst for alkaline HER.
• To investigate the performance of a 3D porous Ni-CeO2 nanosheet array on a Ti mesh (Ni-CeO2/TM).
• To evaluate the catalytic activity, efficiency, and durability.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 3D porous Ni-CeO2 nanosheet array on a Ti mesh.
• Electrochemical characterization using techniques like linear sweep voltammetry.
• Testing for hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline media.

Main Results:

• The Ni-CeO2/TM catalyst achieved a current density of 10 mA cm-2 at a low overpotential of 67 mV.
• This represents a significant improvement, being 77 mV lower than the Ni/TM catalyst.
• The electrocatalyst demonstrated excellent electrochemical durability with nearly 100% faradaic efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The 3D porous Ni-CeO2 nanosheet array on Ti mesh is a highly effective electrocatalyst for alkaline HER.
• The catalyst exhibits superior activity and stability compared to traditional Ni/TM.
• This material holds potential for efficient hydrogen production.