Bifunctional Ru-Cluster-Decorated Co3B−Co(OH)2 Hybrid Catalyst Synergistically Promotes NaBH4 Hydrolysis and Water Splitting

Abstract

Developing a highly efficient bifunctional catalyst for hydrolysis of metal hydrides and spontaneous hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is essential for substituting conventional fuels for H2 production. Herein, Ru-cluster-modified Co3B−Co(OH)2 supported on nickel foam (Ru/Co3B−Co(OH)2@NF) is constructed by electroless deposition, calcination and chemical reduction. The catalyst exhibits an excellent hydrogen generation rate (HGR) of 4989 mL min−1 (Formula presented.) and good reusability, superior to most previously reported catalysts. Besides, Ru/Co3B−Co(OH)2@NF displays a prominent hydrogen evolution reaction catalytic capability with a low overpotential of 153.0 mV at 100 mA cm−2 (50.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2), a small Tafel slope of 40.0 mV dec−1 and long-term stability (100 h@10 mA cm−2) in 1.0 M KOH. The excellent catalytic H2 generation capacity benefits from the rapid charge transfer promoted by metallic Co3B, the synergistic catalytic effect of Co3B−Co(OH)2 and Ru clusters, and the unique composite structure favorable for solute transport and gas emission.