Advances in Understanding Tungsten Disulfide Dynamics during the Hydrogen-Evolution Reaction: An Initial Step in...

Tungsten disulfide (WS₂), a promising electrocatalyst made from readily available materials, demonstrates significant effectiveness in the hydrogen-evolution reaction (HER). The study conducts a thorough investigation using various analytical methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and in situ Raman spectroscopy. These techniques have uncovered changes in the WS₂ particle structure during HER. Through employing EPR, XAS, and in situ Raman spectroscopy, the research reveals structural and chemical transformations. This includes the formation of novel W species and signs of W-O bond formation. Moreover, significant changes in the morphology of the particles were observed. These findings offer enhanced insights into the mechanisms of WS₂ under HER conditions, highlighting its catalytic performance and durability.