Synergistically coupling of WC-WP/NC hybrid catalyst for electrocatalytic hydrogen production

Abstract

WC-based materials are considered as a promising alternative electrocatalyst to Pt because of its similar electronic structure to Pt at Fermi level, low cost and good corrosion resistance. However, the shortcomings of easy agglomeration of WC at high temperature and its own strong WH bond leaded to its low catalytic performance. Herein, the hybrid catalyst of WC-WP/NC was prepared by a simple melting salt-assisted simultaneous phosphorylation and carbonization strategy. Excitingly, the hydrogen evolution overpotential of WC-WP/NC is much lower than that of WC/NC and WP/NC in acidic and alkaline conditions, and the stability of WC-WP/NC is significantly better than 20% Pt/C. The excellent performance is mainly attributed to the synergistically coupling of WC and WP hybrids, the rapid transfer of interface charges has changed the electronic structure of the catalyst. Furthermore, the nitrogen doped two-dimensional porous carbon nano sheets can not only increase the conductivity of the catalyst and prevent the agglomeration of nano particles, but also effectively promote the contact between electrolyte and catalyst, accelerating the HER (Hydrogen Evolution Reaction) kinetic reaction. This work provides an effective strategy for constructing a good dispersive multi-interface hybrid catalyst.