Metal organic framework derived nickel phosphide/graphitic carbon hybrid for electrochemical hydrogen generation reaction

Abstract

Abstract Development of efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst composed of earth-abundant elements is scientifically and technologically important for water splitting associated with the conversion and storage of renewable energy. Herein, we report a new class of nickel-phosphide/graphitic carbon (Ni2P@GC) hybrid prepared by a two-step strategy: first pyrolyzing of Ni-based metal–organic frameworks (Ni-MOFs) and then phosphating. The HER performance of the as-prepared material was tested using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) method in 0.5 M H2SO4 electrolyte solution. Unexpectedly, the Ni2P@GC exhibited superior HER performance with the onset potential started at −93 mV and good durability due to the synergistic interaction of active Ni2P nanoparticles and graphitic carbon support. This study offers an attractive electrocatalyst toward the power-efficient electrochemical preparation of hydrogen energy.