Design and electrochemical performance of a (g-C3N4)-MoS2@MOF composite as a durable catalyst for hydrogen evolution

In pursuit of efficient hydrogen generation and sustainable environmental remediation, a novel ternary heterojunction composite (g-C₃N₄)-MoS₂@MOF has been successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method. This advanced nanocomposite integrates graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), and a metal–organic framework (MOF), aiming to enhance electrocatalytic performance. Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the phase purity and composition of the composite material, while field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed a distinctive morphology: flower-like g-C₃N₄, layered MoS₂, and polished MOF fragments forming a robust composite matrix. Electrochemical studies demonstrated that hydrogen evolution follows the Volmer-Tafel mechanism, with a low Tafel slope of ~ 89 mV/decade, indicating favorable reaction kinetics. Chronoamperometry confirmed the catalyst’s remarkable electrochemical stability over 12 h. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) performed at a constant potential of 0.146 V across a broad frequency range (100 MHz to 1 Hz) confirmed effective charge transfer properties. This study presents a structurally durable and highly efficient catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction, emphasizing its potential for integration into next-generation clean energy and environmental remediation systems.