CuS@defect-rich MoS2 core-shell structure for enhanced hydrogen evolution

The catalytic activity of MoS2 for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is closely-related to its active edge sites and electrical conductivity. In this work, a novel strategy to enhance HER by introducing defects into interface to take advantage of synergistic effect between them was reported. Specifically, in the first step, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with additional active edge sites was prepared through defect engineering, and then copper sulphide(CuS)@defect-rich MoS2 core-shell structure with better electron transport capability was constructed, thus achieving high-efficiency HER by synergistic effect. Benefiting from the additional active edge sites of the defect-rich MoS2 and the improved charge transport facilitated by the intimate interface, CuS@defect-rich MoS2 could afford a current density of 10 mA.cm(-2) at a low overpotential of 135 mV and a Tafel slope of 50 mV.dec(-1), as well as relatively long-term stability. (C) 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.