Edge sites on platinum electrocatalysts are responsible for discharge in the hydrogen evolution reaction†

Abstract

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on platinum (Pt) electrocatalysts involves the generation of hydrogen atoms and the formation of hydrogen molecules. It is commonly believed that the sites on the surfaces of the terrace (111, 110, and 100) domains are responsible for the formation of hydrogen molecules. However, the electrochemistry of the hydrogen atom generation is not well understood. We created edge-rich platinum electrocatalysts using nano-fabrics comprising entire single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as templates and supports. We then conducted the HER on the edge-rich Pt/SWCNT hybridized electrocatalysts and gained new insights into the electrochemical properties and functions of the edge sites. We propose that the edge sites are oxidized and serve two important functions: they act as atomic barriers, allowing electrons to accumulate within the terrace (111, 110, and 100) domains, and they transfer the electrons to the hydronium ions in the electrical double layer through discharge. Enhancing the discharge capability of the electrocatalysts is an efficient way to reduce the amount of platinum required, and this can be applied to various precious metal-based electrocatalysts to enhance their electrocatalytic activities and durability.