Exfoliation of MoS2 by zero-valent transition metal intercalation

Abstract

Exfoliation of bulk molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) into few-layered nanosheets is achieved with the assistance of zero-valent transition metal (Co⁰, Ni⁰, Cu⁰) intercalation. The as-prepared MoS₂ nanosheets are characterized to consist of 1T- and 2H-phases with an enhanced electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. This work provides a novel strategy to prepare 2D MoS₂ nanosheets using mild reductive reagents, which is expected to avoid the undesired structural damage from conventional chemical exfoliation.