Electrochemically Facile Hydrogen Evolution Using Ruthenium Encapsulated Two Dimensional Covalent Organic Framework (2D COF)

Two dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) are unique class of crystalline porous polymers which are formed by the covalent bonding between the organic building blocks. Their layers are stacked to each other by non-covalent interactions. The stacking sequence between the layers is highly significant towards various applications. In this article, we have prepared ruthenium ions encapsulated 2D COF (Ru@COF) from a synthesized COF. We have performed an electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction using Ru@COF as electrocatalyst. Moreover, Ru@COF shows better electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity compared to bare RuCl3 and COF. The HER activities are measured in 1.5 M H2SO4 medium. Ru@COF shows onset potential 159 mV with the Tafel slope of 79 mV dec(-1). The linear Tafel plot with the slope 79 mV dec(-1) indicates Volmer-Heyrovsky-Tafel mechanism for the Ru@COF catalysed HER. COF plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and catalytic efficiency of the material. Interestingly, Ru@COF acts as exemplary electrocatalyst material that is used as solid binder-free cathodic electrode on glassy carbon electrode surface.