K Intercalation-Assisted Co-Doped MoS2 Nanoflowers for an Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Minkai Qin1, Menghui Qi1, Ruxue Fan1
1Advanced Materials and Catalysis Group, Center of Chemistry for Frontier Technologies, State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Institute of Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310028, P. R. China.
Precision Chemistry
|August 29, 2025
Summary
We developed K intercalation-assisted cobalt-doped molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoflowers for efficient hydrogen generation. This advanced catalyst significantly enhances electrocatalytic activity in alkaline media compared to pristine MoS2.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Catalysis
Background:
- 2D transition metal disulfides (TMDs) are explored as platinum alternatives for hydrogen generation.
- Performance limitations in alkaline media stem from sluggish water dissociation and few active sites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize K intercalation-assisted Co-doped MoS2 nanoflowers.
- To enhance electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline conditions.
Main Methods:
- A two-step hydrothermal synthesis was employed.
- Potassium (K) intercalation and cobalt (Co) doping were used to modify MoS2 structure.
- Electrochemical performance was evaluated for HER.
Main Results:
- K-intercalated Co-doped MoS2 nanoflowers achieved an overpotential of 67 mV at 10 mA cm-2, significantly lower than pristine MoS2 (143 mV).
- K intercalation expanded interlayer spacing, facilitating Co doping.
- Co doping improved charge transfer and reduced water splitting energy barrier to 0.12 eV.
Conclusions:
- Co-engineered K-intercalated MoS2 nanoflowers effectively activate inert basal planes for enhanced HER.
- This approach offers a strategy for developing advanced electrocatalysts by combining chemical intercalation and atomic doping.
- The methodology can be applied to create other functional materials.
