Tailoring of Time for Hydrothermal Synthesis of 2D MoSe2 with Enhanced Adsorption and Electro‐Catalytic Efficiency for Applications in Self‐Cleaning and Hydrogen Energy Generation

Abstract

AbstractMolybdenum diselenide (MoSe2), a 2D layered transition metal dichalcogenide, has garnered significant scientific research interest for its catalytic and electrocatalytic activities. Here, a straightforward hydrothermal procedure is used to synthesize MoSe2 nanosheets (NSs) and focus on their adsorption capabilities and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. The MoSe2 NSs which are synthesized by 12 h of hydrothermal treatment found to exhibit the highest adsorption capacity of 91.67 mg g−1. The kinetics of the adsorption process have been found to follow the pseudo‐second‐order model, signifying chemisorption and multilayer adsorption as described by the Freundlich isotherm. The thermodynamic analysis further suggests that the adsorption proceeds by endothermic and spontaneous mechanisms. The self‐cleaning property of the adsorbent is demonstrated by degrading the dye on the adsorbent‐coated cotton fabric. The sample created using a 12 h hydrothermal method has been shown to have a minimal Tafel slope of 58 mV dec−1. It also shows excellent HER activity at low over‐potential and possesses long‐term durability. The dual functionality of MoSe2 NSs in both adsorption and electrocatalytic activity highlights their potential for application in environmental remediation and renewable energy production.