Moving beyond Ti₂C₃T_x MXene to Pt-Decorated TiO₂@TiC Core–Shell via Pulsed Laser in Reshaping Modification for Accelerating Hydrogen Evolution Kinetics

Abstract

Phase engineering of nanocatalysts on specific facets is critical not only for enhancing catalytic activity but also for intensely understanding the impact of facet-based phase engineering on electrocatalytic reactions. In this study, we successfully reshaped a two-dimensional (2D) MXene (Ti3C2T x ) obtained by etching Ti3AlC2 MAX via a pulsed laser irradiation in liquid (PLIL) process. We produced a TiO2@TiC core–shell structure in spheres with sizes of 200–350 nm, and then ∼2 nm ultrasmall Pt NPs were decorated on the surface of the TiO2@TiC core–shell using the single-step PLIL method. These advances allow for a significant increase in electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity under visible light illumination. The effect of optimal Pt loading on PLIL time was identified, and the resulting Pt/TiO2@TiC/Pt-5 min sample demonstrated outstanding electrochemical and photoelectrochemical performance. The photoelectrochemical HER activity over Pt/TiO2@TiC/Pt-5 min catalyst exhibits a low overpotential of 48 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and an ultralow Tafel slope of 54.03 mV/dec with excellent stability of over 50 h, which is hydrogen production activity even superior to that of the commercial Pt/C catalysts (55 mV, 62.45 mV/dec). This investigation not only serves as a potential for laser-dependent phase engineering but also provides a reliable strategy for the rational design and fabrication of highly effective nanocatalysts.

Dual‐laser pulse‐patterned α‐Co(OH)2/rGO heterointerface for accelerated water oxidation and surface phase‐transition via in‐situ Raman spectroscopy

“…The total turnover frequency (TOF) was assessed by estimating the active site ( S a ) values on the catalyst surface. Previously, we described the Tafel formula, ECSA, C dl , S a , and TOF 6,53–56 …”

“…Previously, we described the Tafel formula, ECSA, C dl , S a , and TOF. 6,[53][54][55][56] AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS Yeryeong Lee: Conceptualization, investigation, and data curation. Jayaraman Theerthagiri: Conceptualization, investigation, writing, and data curation.…”

Laser-Synthesized Ru-Anchored Few-Layer Black Phosphorus for Superior Hydrogen Evolution: Role of Acoustic Levitation

“…Among the engineered electrocatalysts, 2D-materials such as graphene, carbon nitrides, boron nitrides, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have been employed in HER. These materials offer unique properties and potential advantages over traditional bulk materials. ,− Recently, black phosphorus (BP) has garnered considerable interest owing to its exceptional semiconducting characteristics and exceptionally high hole mobility, measuring 10,000 cm 2 V –1 s –1 , which surpasses that of graphene and TMDs. Furthermore, the puckered orthorhombic structure of BP provides in-plane anisotropy, enabling tailored electronic characteristics and improved charge transport within the BP layers. − This has prompted its exploration in energy devices pertinent to fuel and electricity production. − Despite several studies demonstrating BP as an effective catalyst for the OER and HER, a major limitation is the scarcity of active sites in its crystal structure.…”

Revealing the Impact of Pulsed Laser-Produced Single-Pd Nanoparticles on a Bimetallic NiCo2O4 Electrocatalyst for Energy-Saving Hydrogen Production via Hybrid Water Electrolysis

“…Rapidly increasing energy demand and the global climate change owing to the copious use of fossil fuels have forced us to explore eco-friendly and renewable energy sources. − Hydrogen (H 2 ) has received tremendous attention as a very important future energy carrier to replace current fossil fuels because of its excellent energy density, renewability, and zero-carbon emission. − Currently, large-scale H 2 production relies on steam–methane reforming, which utilizes methane to generate H 2 by reacting with steam. , However, this process is dependent on fossil fuels and also contributes to environmental pollution through CO 2 emissions. Therefore, the current focus of research and development worldwide is to primarily explore the efficient and clean technology for the large-scale production of H 2 . , Over the past several decades, H 2 production through electrocatalytic overall water splitting (OWS) has garnered extensive attention as an effective technology.…”