Recent Advances on Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Electrochemical Energy Conversion

Abstract

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) hold great promise for electrochemical energy conversion technologies in view of their unique structural features associated with the layered structure and ultrathin thickness. Because the inert basal plane accounts for the majority of a TMDC's bulk, activation of the basal plane sites is necessary to fully exploit the intrinsic potential of TMDCs. Here, recent advances on TMDCs‐based hybrids/composites with greatly enhanced electrochemical activity are reviewed. After a summary of the synthesis of TMDCs with different sizes and morphologies, comprehensive in‐plane activation strategies are described in detail, mainly including in‐plane‐modification‐induced phase transformation, surface‐layer modulation, and interlayer modification/coupling. Simultaneously, the underlying mechanisms for improved electrochemical activities are highlighted. Finally, the strategic evaluation on further research directions of TMDCs in‐plane activation is featured. This work would shed some light on future design trends of TMDCs‐based functional materials for electrochemical energy‐related applications.

Atomic‐Level Design of Active Site on Two‐Dimensional MoS2 toward Efficient Hydrogen Evolution: Experiment, Theory, and Artificial Intelligence Modelling

“…The catalytic activity of dopants and the corresponding activated region of the substrate is closely related to the crystal phase of the host. [18] As Pt is regarded as the best HER catalyst at present, doping Pt element is generally acknowledged way to enhance the catalytic activity of MoS 2 . However, since MoS 2 has many crystal phases with different atom coordination, the doping sites of Pt atoms are quite diverse which leads to various active sites of dopped MoS 2 .…”

Bimetallic Co–Mo sulfide/carbon composites derived from polyoxometalate encapsulated polydopamine-decorated ZIF nanocubes for efficient hydrogen and oxygen evolution

“…Two-dimensional layered transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) have been one of the most popular material families for electrochemical energy-related applications due to their unique structures and intrinsic properties. 6,7 MoS 2 is one of the most well-studied materials in the 2D TMD family. Both theoretical simulations and experimental works confirm that the unsaturated chalcogens and metals on the exposed edges are the active sites for the HER.…”

Using Metal Cation to Control the Microstructure of Cobalt Oxide in Energy Conversion and Storage Applications

“…[9] Structural design of the electrode material is an effective means of improving material performance. [10][11][12][13][14] The growth and structural evolution of nanocrystals are mainly determined by surface energy, and the final product tends to reach the minimum surface energy. [15,16] However, adjustment of the crystallization and growth environment can regulate the structure obtained.…”