Optimizing Electronic Synergy Between Pt Nanoparticle and Co Single Atom to Accelerate the Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Activity

Optimizing the electronic structure of an electrocatalyst has been supposed to a valid approach to facilitate the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. Herein, a core–shell architecture comprising a Pt nanoparticle (NP) encapsulated into single-atomic Co species anchored on nickel iron double layered hydroxide substrate (PtCo–NiFe LDH) was established. The PtCo–NiFe LDH catalyst displays the remarkable electrocatalytic HER performance (29 mV@10 mA cm⁻²), better than the NiFe LDH (183 mV@10 mA cm⁻²) and commercial Pt/C (30 mV@10 mA cm⁻²). In addition, it also possesses excellent stability for up to 25 h, and the morphology and structure have hardly undergone any significant changes. It is supposed that the efficient electronic relation between Pt NP and atomically-distributed Co site on NiFe LDH could give rise to plentiful active sites and enhanced conductivity, and thus raise excellent catalytic properties. This work would improve the design and construction of efficient electrocatalysts for a sustainable green energy system.

Graphical Abstract

The acquired PtCo-NiFe LDH has been successfully prepared and used as HER electrocatalyst