Electrodeposition of Ni/Ni(OH)2 Catalytic Films for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Produced by using Cyclic Voltammetry

Abstract Effective artificial photosynthesis to produce hydrogen from water requires active, earth‐abundant, and low‐cost electrocatalysts. In this Communication, we present a novel electrodeposition method to produce Ni/Ni(OH) 2 catalytic films in situ on conductive surfaces. The new method involves two cycles of cyclic voltammetry, and produces a catalytic film with a surface morphology consisting of a monolayer of firmly packed walnut‐shaped particles. It has superior catalytic activity compared to catalysts produced through traditional electrodeposition methods under constant current density. The method is a simpler and more cost‐effective way to fabricate highly effective hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts, creating large numbers of Ni(OH) 2 /Ni interfaces that shift the catalyst's performance significantly towards that of platinum.