Investigating Electrodeposition of Platinum Nanoparticles on Stainless-Steel Mesh Electrodes for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

Hydrogen production through electrochemical water splitting is a promising approach for sustainable energy generation, yet developing efficient and durable electrocatalysts remains a critical challenge. This study successfully developed a highly active platinum nanoparticles-decorated stainless-steel mesh (Pt/SSM) electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using electrodeposition. The Pt nanoparticles exhibited a unique micro-leaf structure on the SSM surface. The Pt/SSM electrocatalyst demonstrated superior HER performance compared to bare SSM, with a remarkably low overpotential of 121 mV and a Tafel slope of 40 mV dec −1 in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 . This performance was superior to their activity in 0.5 M KOH, attributed to the higher proton concentration, favorable Volmer kinetics, and improved catalyst-electrolyte interactions in the acidic medium. The electrodeposited Pt/SSM electrocatalyst also exhibited more stable HER performance in acidic electrolytes compared to alkaline ones, likely due to the preservation of its morphological integrity in acidic conditions. Overall, this work successfully developed a highly active and durable Pt/SSM electrocatalyst for practical hydrogen production, with the acidic medium providing optimal performance.