Synergistic interface of Nb-doped MoSe2 and NiTe heterostructure enables efficient electrocatalysis for hydrogen evolution

To support clean hydrogen energy, we present a niobium-doped molybdenum diselenide integrated with nickel telluride (Nb-MoSe 2 –NiTe) heterostructure as an efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic media. Nb-doping modulates the electronic structure of MoSe 2 , while NiTe contributes to enhanced conductivity and introduces additional active interfacial sites. Structural and surface characterizations confirm successful doping and heterostructure formation. The optimized Nb-MoSe 2 –NiTe composition achieves a low overpotential of 395 mV at 50 mA/cm 2 and a Tafel slope of 242 mV/dec, along with a high ECSA of 377.5 cm 2 . These enhancements result from synergistic interactions that promote charge transfer and hydrogen adsorption. The Nb-MoSe 2 –NiTe offers a promising platform for cost-effective HER catalysis, demonstrating a rational strategy that integrates electronic and interfacial engineering for sustainable hydrogen production. • Nb -doped MoSe 2 -NiTe heterostructure synthesized for efficient HER in acidic media. • Nb doping tunes MoSe 2 electronic structure provides additional active sites and NiTe improves conductivity. • Nb -MoSe 2 -NiTe heterostructure delivers overpotential of 395 mV at 50 mA/cm 2 and Tafel slope of 242 mV/dec . • Synergistic electronic and interfacial engineering enables cost-effective, sustainable hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst