Ni composite electrodes for hydrogen generation: Activation of Nb-based semiconductors

The hydrogen evolution reaction depends on the accumulation of electrons catalytic center to enable two-electron processes involved in water reduction. This work reports modification inexpensive nickel (Ni) composite electrodes with engineered semiconductor heterojunctions based earth-abundant transition metals that show superior generation activity presence a non-toxic electrolyte (K2CO3). is, small amounts cobalt (Co) or copper (Cu) oxides can improve reactivity formed by deposition titanium (Ti) niobium (Nb) semiconductors onto Ni surfaces. In general, modified Nb-based better performance and their enhanced be understood terms surface potentials upon formation semiconductor-Ni heterojunctions. Photoelectrochemical detected Cu oxides, where onset potential is reduced under UV–Vis light irradiation. study demonstrates composition changes greatly affect electrodes, showing exciting new applications for materials.