Molybdenum disulfide nanomaterials: Structures, properties, synthesis and recent progress on hydrogen evolution reaction

In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the MoS2 nanomaterials, summarizing recent related studies on structures, properties, synthesis techniques and recent progress on hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Base on its crystalline anisotropy arising from the sandwiched structure of S-Mo-S layers, four poly-types of MoS2 structures have been identified, viz. 1T MoS2, 1H MoS2, 2H MoS2 and 3R MoS2. After their structures investigated, we summarized its diverse properties, such as activity, friction, catalytic, optical and electronic properties. Next, we describe the general synthetic approaches, viz. physical and chemical methods, also address future directions for various practical applications of novel MoS2-based materials. Some key recent progress on HER are addressed, which are substantiated by examples from the existing literature and some new results. Finally, suggestions for future MoS2 based catalyst designs for HER are given. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.