MoP nanocrystals encapsulated in N-doped three-dimensional carbon networks for efficient hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis

Abstract

It is still a challenge to explore durable and highly efficient non-precious metal-based electrocatalysts, especially transition metal phosphides (TMPs), with favorable nanoarchitectures towards the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, we demonstrate an effective NaCl hard template strategy combined with subsequent high temperature phosphorization to prepare MoP nanocrystals encapsulated in N-doped three-dimensional carbon networks (MoP/NC). Due to the excellent integration of uniform electrocatalytic active constituents and a unique porous conductive carbonaceous framework, the hierarchical heterostructures exhibit robust HER activity to achieve 10 mA cm⁻² at relatively low overpotential in acidic (130 mV) and alkaline (150 mV) media, respectively, and present superior cyclability and durability to bulk MoP. This work provides a versatile route to design and construct multi-dimensional TMP/carbonaceous matrix composites to be applied in the electrocatalytic HER and even other energy storage and conversion applications.