Hybrid transition metal carbides on graphene nanowalls compounds for very efficient hydrogen evolution reaction

The transition to a post-fossil fuel economy requires sustainable energy sources, with hydrogen emerging as a prominent alternative fuel. However, the production of green hydrogen through water splitting relies on costly Pt-group metal catalysts. Thus, the search for efficient and cost-effective catalysts remains a priority. Transition metal (TM) carbides have gained attention due to their abundance and potential for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Vertical graphene nanowalls offer a high specific surface area and excellent conductivity, making them an ideal support substrate. This presentation highlights the deposition of Mo and W carbide nanostructures onto vertical graphene nanowalls using magnetron sputtering and thermal annealing. Electrochemical analysis reveals enhanced HER performance, demonstrating the potential for developing hybrid nanostructures based on nanocatalyst deposition onto three-dimensional graphene templates.