Incorporating Au-11 nanoclusters on MoS2 nanosheet edges for promoting the hydrogen evolution reaction at the interface

摘要

The electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) holds grip as a promising strategy to obtain renewable energy resources in the form of clean fuel - hydrogen (H-2). However, understanding the catalytic mechanism at the atomic level for sustainable and efficient production of hydrogen remains an arduous challenge. In this regard, atomically precise nanoclusters (NCs) with their molecule-like properties can be utilized for a better understanding of the mechanism at the catalytic interface, identification of active sites, and much more. Herein, we report a strategy to enhance the HER activity of the well-known electrocatalyst MoS2 by the incorporation of atomically precise gold nanoclusters, Au-11(PPh3)(7)I-3. Interestingly, Au-11(PPh3)(7)I-3 NCs were impregnated onto MoS2 nanosheets without protecting ligands as naked Au-11 clusters which have increased atom efficiency. Different loadings of Au-11(PPh3)(7)I-3 nanoclusters on MoS2 nanosheets revealed the superior HER activity of 2% loading of the NCs. Theoretical calculations have shown that the nanocomposite has the optimum hydrogen adsorption energy that is crucial for efficient H-2 production. Combined experimental and theoretical results provide the atomic-level understanding of the utilization of electrochemically dormant ligand-protected NCs to accelerate the HER activity of MoS2 nanosheets.