Synergistic modulation in MX2 (where M = Mo or W or V, and X = S or Se) for an enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction

Abstract

In order to solve the energy crisis and reduce the environmental impact of the combustion of fossil fuels, the strategy of obtaining hydrogen using the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has great potential. Being promising candidates for HER catalysts, two-dimensional (2D) layered transition metal dichalcogenides having the general formula MX₂ (where M represents Mo or W or V, and X denotes S or Se) have attracted significant attention. During the past several years, it has been found that synergistic effects were very important. According to some recent studies, reasonable synergistic modulation is beneficial for increasing the performance of the HER. In this work, the contribution of synergistic modulations in MX₂ materials towards the HER is investigated, and is expected to play a positive role in the development of high-efficiency catalytic materials.