A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst for synchronous desulfurization and hydrogen evolution by a self-driven system

Abstract

Here, we introduce a self-driven system powered by a Zn–air battery to facilitate an electrocatalytic sulfide oxidation reaction coupled with a hydrogen evolution reaction (SOR‖HER), thereby achieving the simultaneous production of sulfur and hydrogen. A heterostructured MoS₂/Ni₉S₈/NF rod-like nanoarray was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method for use in this system. Experimental results reveal that the unique rod-like array structure and robust interface coupling effect not only improve catalyst conductivity and mass transfer but also facilitate electron redistribution to form high-valence nickel (Ni³⁺) and electron-rich metal–sulfur active centers. Consequently, the MoS₂/Ni₉S₈/NF catalyst exhibits excellent activity (SOR: η₁₀₀ = 0.311 V; HER: η₁₀₀ = 0.134 V) and long stability (480 h) in both SOR and HER processes. A current density of 100 mA cm⁻² can be achieved by applying only 0.674 V in the SOR‖HER system. Moreover, by integrating the Zn–air battery and SOR‖HER system, the self-driven system achieved an impressive hydrogen production rate of 5.50 mmol min⁻¹ g_catalyst⁻¹ and stable and efficient hydrogen production for up to ∼5000 min. In conclusion, this work establishes a self-driven system utilizing trifunctional catalysts for simultaneous hydrogen production and desulfurization, which is expected to achieve high economic efficiency, sustainable development, and environmental remediation.