Improving intrinsic electrocatalytic activity of layered transition metal chalcogenides as electrocatalysts for water splitting

Abstract

Electrochemical water splitting has been considered an important method for facilitating renewable and sustainable energy conversion. For the practical application of water electrocatalysis, it is important to develop a non-noble metal-based, earth-abundant, highly efficient, and stable electrocatalysts for water splitting. Among the various non-noble metal-based electrocatalysts, layered transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have emerged as fascinating materials for electrochemical water splitting. The unique structural and electronic properties of layered TMCs make them very attractive for understanding the fundamental principles of electrocatalysis, as well as for developing highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts for the practical application of water electrocatalysis. In this mini review, we present a comprehensive overview of recent developments to improve the intrinsic electrocatalytic activity of layered transition metal chalcogenide (TMC)-based electrocatalysts for practical applications in water splitting.