Zeolitic imidazole framework derived Cu doped Co decorated N-Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets for enhanced hydrogen evolution performance

Abstract

The advancement of highly active electrocatalysts holds significant importance in enhancing hydrogen production technology and fostering the growth of the hydrogen energy economy. Herein, we present a novel electrocatalyst, Cu-doped Co decorated Nitrogen-doped Ti3C2Tx MXene Nanosheets (Cu/Co.TiO2@N-Ti3C2Tx), synthesized through a multi-step process involving the growth of Cu/Co-ZIF rhombic dodecahedrons on exfoliated Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets, followed by heat treatment. The resulting electrocatalyst exhibited remarkable performance in hydrogen evolution, with a low overpotential of 78 mV at − 10 mA/cm2 in a 1.0 M KOH solution. Tafel slope analysis revealed rapid kinetic response (119 mV dec−1), and the electrocatalyst demonstrated exceptional durability over a 24-hour Chronopotential run. This outstanding performance can be attributed to the synergistic effects of N-Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, Cu/Co, and TiO2, providing excellent electronic conductivity and structural robustness. Overall, the Cu/Co.TiO2@N-Ti3C2Tx composite offers significant potential for advancing hydrogen production technology, contributing to carbon emission reduction and environmental protection.