Developing energy-efficient N-doping technology to controllably construct N-Ru2P@Ru nanospheres for highly efficient hydrogen evolution at an ampere-level current density

Abstract

The N-doping strategy plays a vital role in optimizing electrocatalytic performance, but it often requires high-temperatures accompanied by the emission of irritating gases, which is contrary to the concept of energy saving and environmental protection. Based on this, this work innovatively uses the quenching of waste heat and the non-equilibrium state of materials to realize controllable N-doping. Notably, N dopants stimulate metal-like electroconductivity and accelerate the alkaline HER kinetics by optimizing the electronic structure of Ru₂P. Surprisingly, the hydrophilic Ru core and the N-Ru₂P shell with a low HER reaction energy barrier synergistically expedite hydrogen release. As anticipated, the current density of N-Ru₂P@Ru (963 mA cm⁻²) is 2.6-fold that of Pt/C (359 mA cm⁻²) at 150 mV. Overall, the novel N-doping technology greatly simplifies material preparation procedures and reduces energy consumption. Moreover, this unique N-doping strategy provides a new idea for optimizing the catalyst structure and reaction kinetics.