Hollow Nanoparticles Doped Hierarchical Hexagonal Star Shaped Cobalt-Based Phosphosulfides for Water Splitting

Abstract

Hollow nanoparticles doped hierarchical hexagonal star shaped cobalt (Co) phosphosulfides (CoS/P) have been prepared with sulphidation and phosphorization of Co-based hydroxides as precursors sequentially. Each corner of a hexagonal star is composed of many branched nanorods. Hollow nanoparticles with an average size of 50 nm are observed on these branches. The resulting CoS/P catalyst show efficient water splitting activity. These hollow nanoparticles provide more exposed active sites with enhanced reaction activity and reaction rate. Theoretical calculations also confirm the beneficial effect of CoS/P compared with CoS. This novel hierarchical structure is a promising electrocatalyst for overall water splitting.

Keywords: Water splitting, hierarchical structures, hollow nanoparticles, CoS, CoS/P