Ultra-fast one-step electrochemical synthesize of Ni-Mn-P as an active and stable electrocatalyst for green hydrogen production

Abstract

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is an essential electrochemical process, integral to hydrogen production via water splitting, and a clean and sustainable energy source. The efficiency of HER is fundamentally dependent on the electrocatalyst’s performance, particularly for its intrinsic activity and long-term stability. In this study, nickel–manganese–phosphide (Ni-Mn-P) nanosheets were synthesized on nickel foam (NF) substrates through a one-step electrodeposition method using the galvanostatic technique at various current densities. The electrocatalytic behavior of these materials for HER was systematically evaluated using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), cyclic voltammetry (CV), Tafel analysis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), dynamic specific resistance testing, and stability measurements. The results indicated that the sample synthesized at a current density of 1 A/cm2 exhibited superior electrocatalytic activity, achieving an overpotential of 79 mV vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) to reach a current density of 10 mA.cm⁻². Additionally, the optimized sample displayed the lowest Tafel slope and minimal charge transfer resistance (R_ct), as confirmed by Tafel and EIS analyses. This study demonstrates an efficient electrochemical synthesis approach for producing highly active and stable electrocatalysts, significantly improving the efficiency of hydrogen generation.