Dynamic Dissolution-Deposition Equilibrium Enables Unprecedented HER Stability in Acidic PEMWE

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is crucial for green hydrogen production using renewable energy.
• Catalyst degradation in acidic media under intermittent power supply limits PEMWE durability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a stable and active catalyst for PEMWE by addressing acid-driven degradation.
• To investigate a dynamic dissolution-deposition equilibrium for enhanced catalyst longevity.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a high-entropy alloy (FeCoNiNbPt) derived architecture.
• Utilizing a dealloying process to create a porous scaffold with NbOx buffer and Pt-rich nanocrystals.
• Characterization of catalyst performance for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) under simulated operating conditions.

Main Results:

• The engineered catalyst exhibits exceptional HER stability (>2200 h at 1 A cm⁻²) and activity (137 mV at 1 A cm⁻²).
• A dynamic self-adaptive mechanism involving dissolution-deposition equilibrium was identified.
• The catalyst demonstrates a 60% reduction in platinum loading compared to commercial Pt/C.

Conclusions:

• The dynamic equilibrium design paradigm offers a pathway to highly durable PEMWE catalysts.
• This approach enables efficient green hydrogen production using renewable energy sources.
• The catalyst's industrial applicability is highlighted by its mass-producible nature and reduced platinum content.