Engineering MoS2-based electrocatalysts for water splitting: a comprehensive review of doping, heterostructures, and support integration strategies

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive overview of MoS₂, encompassing its crystallographic phases (1T, 2H, and 3R), fundamental structural, optical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties, as well as synthesis strategies and characterization techniques. The fundamentals of water splitting, including the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and overall water splitting (OWS), are discussed to frame the relevance of MoS₂ as an advanced electrocatalyst. Recent advances in MoS₂-based electrocatalysis are critically reviewed, with a detailed classification of state-of-the-art catalysts: heteroatom-doped MoS₂, carbon-supported MoS₂ hybrids, precious-metal-doped MoS₂, and non-precious-metal-incorporated MoS₂ systems. Each category is analyzed in terms of design rationale, synthesis methods, structure–activity relationships, and electrochemical performance. By integrating fundamental insights with recent developments, this review aims to provide a rational framework for the design of next-generation MoS_nbz-based electrocatalysts for green hydrogen production and beyond. The perspectives and challenges outlined herein will guide future research directions toward scalable and efficient electrocatalyst development, thereby advancing the field of sustainable energy conversion.