RGO induced one-dimensional bimetallic carbide nanorods: An efficient and pH-universal hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst

It is an urgent mission to develop efficient and stable non-precious metal electrocatalyst toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for the implementation of hydrogen energy. Here, we demonstrate a novel RGO (reduced graphene oxide) induced one-dimensional bimetallic carbide nanorods (Fe3W3C NRs/RGO), which exhibits extraordinary HER performance with almost zero onset potential, small Tafel slope and extreme high electrochemical durability in wide pH range. Experimental results in combination with density functional theory calculations reveal that the chemical and electronic coupling between the Fe3W3C and RGO synergistically promotes the charge-transfer, proton adsorption and reduction, giving rise to excellent HER performance.