Constructing novel Sn-Mo bimetallic sulfide heterostructures for enhanced catalytic performance towards the hydrogen evolution reaction

Abstract

Understanding the design principles of efficient electrocatalysts using the structure–activity relationship is crucial for the advancement of energy-related applications, and specifically the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Non-precious electrocatalysts with low overpotentials are essential for driving the HER and achieving high energy efficiency. In this study, we synthesized and thoroughly investigated various heterostructures combining Mo and Sn sulfides, ranging from complete phase-separated hybrids to homogeneous mixtures: SnS@MoS₂ core–shell structures, SnS/MoS₂ with edge-rich Mo and (Sn_xMo_1-x)S with uniformly distributed Sn-Mo. Our findings reveal that the SnS@MoS₂ structure exhibited relatively high intrinsic activity characterized by a high electrochemical active surface area and rapid charge transfer kinetics, thereby enhancing the HER catalytic performance. The presence of fluffy MoS₂ layers provided an abundance of optimized sites for HER, potentially due to strain and defects such as S vacancies, known as active catalytic sites. The optimal structure facilitated efficient charge transfer from the core to the shell, improving conductivity and catalytic activity. Our research highlights the advantages of a core–shell hybrid structure, offering guiding principles for the development of an optimal SnS@MoS₂ catalyst.