Probing layered Y(TM)B₄ (TM = Cr, Mo and W) borides as efficient hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalysts

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Hydrogen production is crucial for sustainable energy.
• Developing efficient electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is essential.
• Ternary metal borides are emerging as promising HER catalysts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the catalytic activity and stability of layered ternary metal borides: YCrB4, YMoB4, and YWB4.
• To compare the performance of YWB4 against a commercial platinum on carbon (Pt/C) catalyst.
• To assess the long-term durability of YWB4 for HER.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of YCrB4, YMoB4, and YWB4.
• Electrochemical evaluation of catalytic activity using techniques like linear sweep voltammetry.
• Stability testing under continuous operation at high current densities.

Main Results:

• YWB4 exhibited the highest catalytic activity among the studied borides.
• YWB4 demonstrated a lower overpotential compared to Pt/C at 1000 mA cm⁻².
• YWB4 maintained 95% of its initial activity after 25 hours of continuous operation at 1000 mA cm⁻².

Conclusions:

• YWB4 is a highly active and stable electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
• YWB4 shows significant potential as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to Pt-based catalysts for industrial hydrogen production.
• Further research into ternary metal borides could lead to advanced HER catalysts.