NiMOF-derived MoSe2@NiSe2 heterostructure with hollow core-shell for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction

Hydrogen production by electrochemical water splitting is one of the best ways to store renewable energy. Metal organic framework (MOF)-derived non-precious metal catalysts are an effective idea for large-scale commercialization and electrolysis of water for hydrogen production. Herein, we have synthesized Ni,Mo bimetallic selenide MoSe2@NiSe2 heterojunctions with hollow core-shell using a selenization reaction to combine MoSe2 with NiMOF-derived NiSe2. The spherical clusters of MoSe2 prevents the agglomeration and sintering of NiSe2 and shorten the electron transfer distance form MoSe2 to NiSe2. The electron flow between the transition metals Ni and Mo after the selenization reaction, which alters the electronic structure of NiMOF and MoSe2. NiSe2 derived from NiMOF provides more active center as well as better conductivity to accelerate the electron transfer rate. Thus facilitating the HER catalytic process. Electrochemical analysis confirmed that the activity of Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) of MoSe2@NiSe2 was significantly increased in 0.5 M H2SO4, with an overpotential of 187 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a tafel slope of 71.43 mV dec−1. This work provides a new route for the design and preparation of the NiMOF-based catalysts in HER.