Hydrothermally Synthesized Transition Metal Oxide‐MoS 2 Composite for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract Manganese, cobalt oxide‐based molybdenum disulphide (Mn‐Co‐MoS 2 ) composite was synthesized via hydrothermal method and its potential towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance was evaluated. Structural and morphological studies confirmed successful Mn and Co incorporation, enhancing electro‐catalytic properties of the sample. X‐ray diffraction validated phase formation, while field‐emission scanning microscopy revealed changes in morphologies in pristine MoS 2 and the composite. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the oxidation states of constituent elements in the composite. Electrochemical studies demonstrated efficient HER activity of Mn‐Co‐MoS 2 , superior compared to pristine MoS 2 . Linear sweep voltammetry showed higher current density and improved catalytic efficiency. The composite exhibited a lower Tafel slope (243 mV/decade) than pristine MoS 2 (638 mV/decade), indicating enhanced reaction kinetics following a Volmer‐Heyrovsky mechanism. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was performed to evaluate the charge transfer resistance of the samples. Electrochemically active surface areas of both the samples were evaluated by means of cyclic voltammetry analysis. The study highlights the potential of the composite as a promising electrocatalyst for HER, offering a favorable balance of catalytic activity, process simplicity, and cost‐effectiveness.