Interface Engineering and Anion Engineering of Mo-Based Heterogeneous Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Development and utilization of hydrogen energy is an effective way to achieve carbon neutrality, only hydrogen production through electrolytic water splitting meets the goal of zero carbon emission. To facilitate the large-scale commercialization of water splitting devices, the development of highly efficient and low-cost catalysts to reduce the energy consumption is essential. MoS2 has been regarded as a promising electrocatalyst to replace platinum in hydrogen evolution reaction due to its low price and unique 2D layered structure. However, the poor conductivity and inert basal planes of MoS2 limited its wide-spread application. Recently, researches have demonstrated that the conductivity and active sites of MoS2 can be improved by heteroatoms doping or constructing of heterogeneous structures. In this review, the recent progress of Mo-based catalysts are summarized centered on MoS2 based on interface engineering and anion engineering, including MoS2-MoO2, MoS2-Mo2C, MoS2-MoNx, MoS2-MoP, and MoS2-MoSe2. The preparation method, structure, and performance of the catalysts are introduced and the possible mechanism behind the improved catalytic activity are revealed to give readers an overall comprehension on the progress of the Mo-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction. In addition, an outlook on future opportunities and development directions of Mo-based catalysts are proposed to facilitate the development of Mo-based catalysts for hydrogen production.