Ru-modified cobalt phosphide nanoparticles on N-doped carbon nanofibers for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline media

Transition metal phosphides (TMPs) are a promising catalyst material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In this study, we introduced inexpensive red phosphorus (P4) into a homogeneous solution as a phosphorus source. Using the electrostatic spinning technique combined with high temperature carbonization, we successfully prepared self-supported carbon nanofibers doped with nitrogen (N) and loaded with ruthenium (Ru)-modified cobalt phosphide (Co2P) nanoparticles catalysts (Ru@Co2P/CNFs). The Ru@Co2P phosphide nanoparticles were evenly distributed on the surface of the carbon fibers, forming a three-dimensional network structure. The synergistic effect between the Ru and Co2P systems resulted in excellent catalytic activity and stability for the hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solutions. The N-doped conducting carbon matrix and large specific surface area of the active sites contributed to this enhanced performance. The Ru@Co2P/CNFs catalysts only required an overpotential of 48 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, outperforming the noble metal platinum/carbon (Pt/C) catalysts, which required an overpotential of 52 mV. Furthermore, the Ru@Co2P nanoparticles were protected by a carbon layer, preventing catalyst corrosion during long-term operation. The HER performance of the Ru@Co2P/CNFs catalysts remained stable even after 40 h of continuous operation, demonstrating their long-lasting stability. This research introduces a new approach to developing cost-effective and highly active self-supported network-structured phosphide catalysts.