Electrochemical Hydrogen Generation from Waste Produced Water Using Graphene- Based Tungsten Trioxide composites

Abstract This work explores the synthesis and characterization of tungsten trioxide (WO3) nanocomposites with graphene derivatives, including graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), using a hydrothermal method. The composites were prepared by incorporating 0.5 wt.% of each graphene derivative with WO3 to investigate their impact on hydrogen generation. Structural analysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of crystalline WO3 and the successful incorporation of graphene-based materials. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed well-integrated composite structures with WO3 particles anchored on graphene sheets. The electrochemical measurements, including linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), were measured in 0.5 M H2SO4 using a three-electrode system to evaluate catalytic activity, charge transfer behaviour, and stability. These results demonstrate the potential of graphene-based WO3 composites as promising materials for electrochemical hydrogen production, contributing to developing efficient, non-precious metal catalysts.