Strong-weak dual interface engineered electrocatalyst for large current density hydrogen evolution reaction

Abstract Supported nanocatalysts are crucial for hydrogen production, yet their activity and stability are challenging to manage due to complex metal-support interfaces. Herein, we design Pt@ anatase&rutile-TiO 2 with a strong-weak dual interface by modifying TiO 2 using high-energy ball milling and in-situ reduction to vary surface energies. Experiments and density functional theory calculations reveal that the strong Pt-anatase TiO 2 interface enhances hydrogen adsorption. In contrast, the weak Pt-rutile TiO 2 interface facilitates hydrogen desorption, simultaneously preventing Pt agglomeration and increasing reaction rate. As a result, the tailored catalyst has a 529.3 mV overpotential at 1000 mA cm −2 in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 , 0.69 times less than commercial Pt/C. It also possesses 8.8 times the mass activity of commercial Pt/C and maintains a low overpotential after 2000 cyclic voltammetry cycles, suggesting high activity and stability. This strong-weak dual interface engineering strategy shows potential for overall water splitting and proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer, advancing the design of efficient supported nanocatalysts.