Design of nanostructured transition-metal catalysts for enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline water electrolysis.

Introduction The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a fundamental reaction in the electrolysis of alkaline water in order to produce sustainable hydrogen, but it is constrained by slow reaction rates and the presence of high-energy barriers. More efficient, low-cost, and long-lasting catalysts should be developed to enhance their performance and allow the broad implementation of green hydrogen technologies. The proposed research seeks to design and analyze nanostructured transition-metal catalysts, particularly the effect of structural engineering, compositional and heterointerface control on improving HER activity and stability in alkaline feeds. Methodology The synthesis of a line of Ni-based catalysts with Ni, NiMo, NiMoOx, and NiMo /Ni(OH) 2 as the products of a hydrothermal reaction was through a thermal treatment. XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS and XPS techniques were used to test structural and surface properties before and after treating the samples with specific chemicals to determine the nature of the source used. Using linear sweep voltammetry, Tafel analysis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and long-term stability analysis, electrochemical performance was evaluated. Results The NiMo/Ni(OH) 2 catalyst performed optimally with the lowest overpotential, enhanced reaction kinetics, decreased resistance to charge transfer and high durability. These are based on the fact that alloyed NiMo and hydroxide interface sensitisers synergistically interact to define water dissociation and hydrogen adsorption. Conclusion The results support the idea that nanostructure and interface engineering play a vital role in enhancing the alkaline HER activity. The heterostructured catalyst developed could provide an alternative to the noble metals as a useful and cost-effective catalyst to produce hydrogen efficiently.