Multi-dimensional MoS2/S-doped-CoP heterostructure nanoarrays as an efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction

Developing efficient and economical electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) over a broad pH range has received considerable attention. In this work, we prepared multi-dimensional MoS 2 /S-CoP heterojunction catalysts by utilizing the carbon clothes supported ZIF-67 array as templates combining with Mo-ion exchange and high-temperature phosphorization-sulfidation strategy. The introduction of MoS 2 into S-CoP results in electron redistribution and the formation of a distinctive space charge region at the two-phase contact interface, thereby effectively tuning surface properties, enhancing electron conductivity, and improving electrocatalytic activity. According to Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, the introduction of MoS 2 is advantageous for the adsorption and desorption of H*, resulting in the value of ΔG H* very close to zero. Furthermore, the adsorbed water molecules are more readily activated, rendering the ΔG H2O-dis decrease, thus significantly promoting HER activity. These features contribute to robust HER electrocatalytic performance in a wide pH range and even in seawater, which is also beneficial for industrial applications. In particular, MoS 2 /S-CoP exhibits superior HER performance in alkaline seawater, requiring only 197 and 228 mV to reach the current densities of 100 and 200 mA cm -2 , respectively. This study offers novel perspectives on high-performance heterostructures for HER electrocatalysts in alkaline seawater environments.