Highly efficient and durable electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction based on composition/shape controlled CuTi@Pt core-shell nanotubes in acidic media

• Published in: Applied surface science 2022-12, Vol.605, p.154331, Article 154331
• Main Authors: Chuyen Phan, Thi, Nguyen, Van-Toan, Choi, Ho-Suk, Kim, HyunChul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2022.154331

[Display omitted] •The CuTi@Ptx alloy nanotubes are synthesized with porous core–shell structure via galvanic replacement.•In-depth analyses of CuTi@Ptx NTs including morphologies, structure, and composition are described.•CuTi@Ptx alloy NTs reveal efficient electrocatalysis towards hydrogen evolution reaction.•The optimized CuTi@Pt0.24 NTs show 1.12 times lower in Tafel value and achieve enhanced durability of remaining unchanged over 24 h compared with Pt/C. High-quality electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions, which have long-term stability and high efficiency, are a major challenge. Enhancing electrocatalytic efficiency can be achieved by creating alloys, designing core–shell structures, and controlling shapes. Herein, we demonstrate an elevated performance CuTi@Pt alloy catalyst with a one-dimensional nanotube structure through a galvanic replacement reaction. While the Pt/Cu atomic ratio and the wall thickness of the nanotube are carefully tuned, the CuTi@Pt alloy phase and tube structure are consequentially controlled. A systematic investigation is then conducted into the differences in composition and shape that impact the activity and durability. The optimized CuTi@Pt nanotube catalyst shows significant enhancements in the HER activity (1.12-fold decrease in Tafel compared to the commercial Pt/C) and the durability (remains unchanged after 24 h).