Silicon Nanowires with MoS_xand Pt as Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

A convenient method was used for synthesizing Pt-nanoparticle/MoSx/silicon nanowires nanocomposites. Obtained Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowires electrocatalysts were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The hydrogen evolution reaction efficiency of the Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowire nanocomposite catalysts was assessed by examining polarization and electrolysis measurements under solar light irradiations. The electrochemical characterizations demonstrate that Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowire electrodes exhibited an excellent catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction in an acidic electrolyte. The hydrogen production capability of Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowires is also comparable toMoSx/silicon nanowires and Pt/silicon nanowires. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments suggest that the enhanced performance of Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowires can be attributed to the fast electron transfer between Pt-MoSx/silicon nanowire electrodes and electrolyte interfaces.

Tunable Pt–MoSx Hybrid Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution

“…For a case-in-point, Chen and co-workers had utilized bottom-up procedures to fabricate Pt nanoparticles on MoS x on conducting substrates like graphene and Si nanowires that require numerous steps and reflux conditions for hours. 30,31 Unlike most of these traditional methods, electrodeposition is a one-pot bottom-up synthesis technique that occurs at ambient conditions. 4,11,32−35 Moreover, electrodeposition embraces the versatile choice of substrate, readily available reagents, fast reaction process and the convenient setup.…”

“…Various bottom-up procedures from precursors include hot-injection, hydrothermal synthesis, − chemical vapor deposition, − and thermal annealing. , Majority of the bottom-up methods are advantageous for high quality composite materials but involve harsh conditions such as high temperature or pressure and multiple steps spanning over a long duration. For a case-in-point, Chen and co-workers had utilized bottom-up procedures to fabricate Pt nanoparticles on MoS x on conducting substrates like graphene and Si nanowires that require numerous steps and reflux conditions for hours. , Unlike most of these traditional methods, electrodeposition is a one-pot bottom-up synthesis technique that occurs at ambient conditions. ,,− Moreover, electrodeposition embraces the versatile choice of substrate, readily available reagents, fast reaction process and the convenient setup . Despite the numerous advantages of electrodeposition, this technique is rarely exploited to create TMD hybrid materials.…”