Three-Dimensional Indium Iron Selenide Nanoarchitecture as an Efficient and Durable Electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

Metal-modified crystal lattices have shown substantial promise for increasing conductivity and electrocatalytic activity in metal selenides. Nonetheless, the search for an appropriate dopant that can precisely adjust its electronic structure for an effective hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) remains a formidable task. In this report, we explore indium (In3+) as a highly efficient candidate for FeSe2 through the single-step hydrothermal method. The successful formation of the catalyst was revealed by X-ray diffractography, electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. By taking advantage of synergistic effects arising from the presence of bimetallic components, the optimized electrocatalyst In0.2Fe0.8Se2 showcases exceptional performance and remarkable durability for the HER. It displays a significantly low overpotential of 158 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm–2, with a low Tafel slope of 74 mV dec–1. This underscores the immense promise of In0.2Fe0.8Se2 in the realm of water electrolysis.