Electronic structure adjustment of 3D transition bimetallic phosphate/reduced graphene oxide as a hybrid electrocatalyst for the HER†

Abstract

Designing efficient and cost-effective nonprecious electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline solution still remains a significant challenge. Herein, we fabricated a three-dimensional (3D) transition bimetallic phosphate/reduced graphene oxide grown in situ on a nickel foam (NiCoP@rGO/NF) for the HER in alkaline media. NiCoP@rGO/NF exhibits a unique three-dimensional spherical nanostructure with a large specific surface area and short diffusion path, which are conducive to the transfer of electrons. NiCoP@rGO/NF requires an overpotential of only 94 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm⁻², with a low Tafel slope (39 mV dec⁻¹), and demonstrates excellent durability in 1.0 M KOH condition. Our work provides a new idea for designing high-performance HER electrocatalysts, which are highly needed in various practical applications.