Optimization of Interfacial Electrons and Compressive-Tensile Strains at Lignin-Derived Carbon-Supported Multiphase...

Developing efficient pH-universal hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts is critically needed yet challenged by pH-dependent. Here, a lignin-derived carbon-supported Ni/Cu/MoO₂ heterostructure (Ni/Cu/MoO₂@LC) through multiphase interfaces design is engineered, which displays excellent electrochemical activity, featuring low potentials of -14.4/-201.5 (acidic), -44.5/-615.7 (neutral), and -28.2/-242.3 mV (alkaline) at -10/-1000 mA cm^-2. Theoretical and experimental analysis show that the Ni/Cu/MoO₂@LC multiphase interfaces produce a synergistic coupling of compressive-tensile strains and interfacial electron transfer effect. This synergistic effect triggers electron redistribution, tailors the electronic configuration through d-band center optimization, and balances intermediate adsorption/desorption energetics. Additionally, lignin-derived carbon self-supported micro-nano-array structure enhances gas-liquid transport and corrosion resistance, allowing Ni/Cu/MoO₂@LC to operate stably for at least 120 h, at -500 mA cm^-2 in various pH solutions. Thus, this study provides a new idea for the design of cost-effective pH-universal HER electrocatalysts and a new approach for applying lignin-derived carbon in electrocatalysis.