Interface engineering in the BNNS@Ti3C2 intercalation structure for enhanced electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Zizheng Ai, Bin Chang, Chengwei Xu, Baibiao Huang, Yongzhong Wu, Xiaopeng Hao, Yongliang Shao*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    19 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Electrocatalysts with the advantages of stability, high efficiency, and noble-metal-free features are in urgent need for water splitting. Herein, for the first time, based on the interface engineering, a novel BNNS@Ti3C2 intercalation electrocatalyst was prepared via a controllable synthesis strategy. The rich active sites of Ti3C2 were better protected as well as were able to serve as a bridge to connect the different layers of BNNS. Furthermore, combining the first-principles calculations, the nature of the interface proved the transformation from semiconducting properties to metallicity in this unique intercalation structure. The as-obtained composite possessed improved conductivity and abundant catalytic active sites, exhibiting a low onset potential of 23 mV and overpotential of 52 mV (vs. RHE) at 10 mA cm-2 with outstanding stability. BNNS@Ti3C2 was used as an electrocatalyst for the first time without noble-metal assistance. This study demonstrates that the layered materials can serve as a promising electrocatalyst by interfacing with the intercalation structure.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Pages (from-to)8613-8619
    Number of pages7
    JournalNew Journal of Chemistry
    Volume43
    Issue number22
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2019

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Catalysis
    • General Chemistry
    • Materials Chemistry

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