Machine Learning Assisted Design and Optimization of Transition Metal-Incorporated Carbon Quantum Dot Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Development of cost-effective hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts with outstanding catalytic activity, replacing cost-prohibitive noble metal-based catalysts, is critical for practical green hydrogen production. A popular strategy for promoting the catalytic performance of noble metal-free catalysts is to incorporate earth-abundant transition metal (TM) atoms into nanocarbon platforms such as carbon quantum dots (CQDs). Although data-driven catalyst design methods can significantly accelerate the rational design of TM element-doped CQD (M@CQD) catalysts, they suffer from either a simplified theoretical model or the prohibitive cost and complexity of experimental data generation. In this study, we propose an effective and facile HER catalyst design strategy based on machine learning (ML) and ML model verification using electrochemical methods accompanied with density functional theory (DFT) simulations. Based on a Bayesian genetic algorithm (BGA) ML model, the Ni@CQD catalyst on a three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (3D rGO) conductor is proposed as the best HER catalyst under the optimal conditions of catalyst loading, electrode type, and temperature and pH of electrolyte. We validate the ML results with electrochemical experiments, where the Ni@CQD catalyst exhibited superior HER activity, requiring an overpotential of 189 mV to achieve 10 mA cm-2 with a Tafel slope of 52 mV dec-1 and impressive durability in acidic media. We expect that this methodology and the excellent performance of the Ni@CQD catalyst provide an effective route for the rational design of highly active electrocatalysts for commercial applications.