Architecturing ultra-stable multi-dimensional MXene/MAX self-supporting electrode anchored with Low-Pt for efficient...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Designing stable and efficient electrodes is crucial for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) applications.
• Self-supporting structures are key to improving electrode stability and electrochemical performance.
• Current electrodes often face challenges with stability and high noble metal loading.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a facile strategy for creating an ultra-stable, integrated 0D-2D-3D self-supporting electrode.
• To enhance conductivity, diffusion channels, and reactive surface area for improved HER.
• To investigate the synergistic effects of a novel heterostructure on catalytic activity and stability.

Main Methods:

• In-situ synthesis of 2D Ti3C2Tx flakes on a 3D porous Ti3AlC2 network.
• Anchorage of 0D ultrafine platinum (Pt) nanoparticles onto the heterostructure.
• Structural characterization and first-principles calculations.
• Electrochemical testing in acidic (0.5 M H2SO4) and simulated seawater electrolytes.

Main Results:

• The 0D-2D-3D integrated electrode demonstrated high conductivity, diffusion, and surface area.
• Highly dispersed ultrafine Pt nanoparticles exhibited strong metal-support interactions.
• The electrode showed superior HER activity compared to commercial Pt/C in both acidic and seawater.
• Achieved excellent stability under high current densities (100 h at 100 mA cm-2).
• Reduced platinum usage by 15 times while maintaining high performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed self-supporting electrode offers a promising design for durable hydrogen evolution reactions.
• The novel heterostructure and Pt nanoparticle integration provide a multifunctional catalytic interface.
• This approach significantly improves Pt utilization efficiency and electrode stability in harsh environments.