One-step direct laser-induced Mo3C2/rGO composite for hydrogen evolution reaction

The development of non-precious metal-based electrocatalysts with high activity and stability is essential for HER reactions. Molybdenum carbides are emerging as promising low-cost electrocatalysts for the HER because of their platinum-like catalytic properties . Here, a one-step direct laser-induced fabrication is developed to synthesize the Mo 3 C 2 /rGO composite. Owing to the self-assembly process, a gelatin-facilitated Mo-ion GO matrix was transformed into hierarchically porous Mo 3 C 2 /rGO, which led to a catalytic surface enriched with defects. The interaction between various phases and the induced lattice defects in Mo 3 C 2 /rGO substantially boosts the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance, which shows low overpotentials of 101 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm −2 , a minimal Tafel slope of 52 mV dec −1 , and remarkable stability lasting over 1000 cycles. This work offers significant guidance for developing high-efficiency HER catalysts through nanoscale interfacial engineering . • A one-step direct laser-induced fabrication is developed to synthesize the Mo 3 C 2 /rGO composite. • Self-assembly enables the gelatin-facilitated Mo-ion GO matrix transformed into hierarchically porous Mo 3 C 2 /rGO. • The interaction between various phases and the induced lattice defects in Mo 3 C 2 /rGO substantially boosts the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance.