A cobalt-doped WS2/WO3 nanocomposite electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction in acidic and alkaline media

The development of earth-abundant and green electrocatalysts is an important research field, aiming to provide energy solutions by clean and efficient hydrogen evolution (HER). 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are well-known HER catalysts, and some are even biocompatible and environmentally friendly, such as WS2. Synthesizing them in a flower-like morphology that provides abundant edges, and the formation of composite structures that offer multiple interfaces, render them with promising features for electrocatalysis. Here we show the synthesis of WS2/WO3 hybrid catalysts, which facilitate the hydrogen evolution reaction. The mixture of 1T/2H-WS2 phases and doping with various transition metals (Fe, Co, and Ni) improves the pristine structures. The 5% Co-WS2/WO3 composite is the most promising HER electrocatalyst among the doped catalysts studied here. These Co-doped WS2/WO3 composites represent another TMD alternative to the precious metal electrocatalysts for the HER.

Automated summary

The development of earth-abundant and green electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution is an important research field. In this study, WS2/WO3 hybrid catalysts were synthesized and it was found that the 5% Co-WS2/WO3 composite showed the most promising electrocatalytic activity among the doped catalysts.