Co9S8@MoS2 Core-Shell Structures Formed on Carbon Nanofibers As Switchable Electrocatalyst for H2 and O2 Evolutions

The production of hydrogen and oxygen through water splitting are promising and appealing solution for developing clean-energy technologies. However, how to design a kind of catalyst for simultaneously generating H₂ and O₂ is still a challenging and crucial issue for improving the overall efficiency of water electrolysis. To optimize and enhance electrocatalysts performance and durability for the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions through electrolysis, we describe a new class of core-shell structures formed on carbon nanofibers with cubic cobalt sulfide as cores and layered molybdenum disulfide as shells. The core-shell design of these nanostructures allows us to combine the advantages of cobalt sulfide and molybdenum disulfide, serving as switchable electrocatalyst for H₂ and O₂ evolutions. The unique core-shell nanostructure can serve as electrode for HER and OER and display excellent stability. These advantages can generate strong electron transfer between Co and Mo through the intermediate sulfur atoms bonded to both metals, leading to the promising promoted electrocatalytic activity. These approaches open new opportunities for exploring overall water splitting catalysts.