State-of-the-art advances and perspectives for electrocatalysis

Abstract

Electrocatalysis stands as a heart for realization of hydrogen gas (H2) as a source of energy to replace conventional and traditional fossil fuel based energy. In this chapter, we present a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) nanostructures for application in electrolytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). MoS2 is a crystalline compound consisting of Mo sandwiched between two sulfur atoms and can be identified in four poly-type structures, namely 1T, 1H, 2H and 3R. Firstly, the reaction accompanied with water splitting electrolysis, HER mechanisms as well as parameters to monitor HER reactions are discussed. Furthermore, the chapter describes different types of MoS2 poly-types, chemical synthetic routes and key approaches to activate inert S-containing basal plane of MoS2. This led to superior performance of new materials by combining the advantages of MoS2 components and others. Finally, future integration approaches which can be used to attain MoS2 with exposed edges and excellent electron transport channel are also outlined in this chapter.