Interfacial Engineering to Construct Two-Dimensional Boron-Doped Iron Disulfide/Metal-Organic Framework...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Seawater electrolysis for hydrogen production is promising but hindered by complex chemistry and corrosivity.
• Developing stable and active catalysts for direct seawater electrolysis is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a catalyst with enhanced activity and stability for preferential seawater electrolysis.
• To investigate the role of interface engineering in catalyst performance for hydrogen production.

Main Methods:

• Heterostructuring of boron-doped iron disulfide (B-FeS2) sheets with metal-organic framework (MOF) sheets.
• Theoretical calculations and experimental validation, including electrochemical tests and materials analysis.

Main Results:

• The B-FeS2/MOF heterostructure achieved an anodic current density of 1.5 A/cm2 at 628 mV overpotential.
• The catalyst exhibited remarkable stability for over 500 hours in seawater, inhibiting chlorine-related reactions.
• Boron doping and interface engineering modulated electronic properties and surface chemistry, favoring hydroxide adsorption and repelling chloride ions.

Conclusions:

• The engineered heterostructure provides an effective pathway for direct hydrogen production from seawater.
• Interface engineering is a viable strategy to enhance catalyst performance and durability in corrosive environments.
• The catalyst's ability to suppress chlorine evolution ensures efficient and selective hydrogen generation.