Ti3C2Tx composite Ni/Co nanofilm as highly efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction

Abstract

In recent years, the demand for clean and sustainable hydrogen energy production via water electrolysis is significantly increasing. In this study, an efficient and stable Ti₃C₂T_x@Co Ni composite was synthesized using magnetron sputtering for hydrogen evolution reactions. The Ti₃C₂T_x@Co Ni composite exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity and stability in alkaline conditions. Notably, it demonstrated the highest electrocatalytic performance in 1 M KOH, with the overpotential reduced to 142 mV at a current density of 10 mA·cm^-2. After undergoing 24 h durability test, the Ti₃C₂T_x@Co Ni material demonstrated excellent stability. Importantly, a simple hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis mechanism is proposed. It is concluded that the incorporation of Co Ni metal and its interaction with single-layer Ti₃C₂T_x enhance the active sites and the charge transfer rate of the exposed metal. This research provides an innovative and practical strategy for the synthesis of nanostructures specifically designed for applications in electrocatalysis and energy storage.