Efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline media remains a key challenge for sustainable hydrogen production. In this study, we report a composite catalyst comprising exfoliated palladium selenide (PdSe2) nanosheets integrated with graphene oxide (GO), designed to enhance the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance.
The exfoliation of PdSe2 flakes (from the bulk crystal) increases the density of accessible active sites, while GO (by modified Hummer method) serves as a conductive scaffold that promotes electron transport and catalyst dispersion. Electrochemical evaluation in alkaline electrolyte reveals (25% KOH) that the PdSe–GO hybrid exhibits a significantly reduced overpotential and improved Tafel slope compared to pristine PdSe, indicating enhanced HER kinetics.
The synergistic interaction between PdSe and GO contributes to improved charge transfer and catalytic efficiency. This work highlights the potential of PdSe-based 2D materials, when combined with conductive carbon supports, as promising electrocatalysts for hydrogen generation in alkaline environments.
Funding: The authors acknowledge the financial support of the Project No. BG16RFPR002-1.014-0009 “Development and Sustainability of the Center of competence HITMOBIL—Technologies and systems for generation, storage and consumption of clean energy”, funded by the Operational Program “Science and Education for Smart Growth” 202114–2020 2027 and co-funded by the EU through the European Regional Development Fund.
