Production of NF/NiCo/Ag catalyst for hydrogen generation in alkaline medium

Summary The nickel foam (NF) precursors were doped with nickel, cobalt particles with various chemical compositions; the most convenient one was decorated with silver nano‐domes and investigated for hydrogen production efficiency (HPE) in 1 M KOH. The X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray techniques were used to characterize the catalysts. Linear sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, Tafel polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and chronoamperometry were used to determine the electrochemical efficiency. The rough structured Ni‐ and Co‐deposited NF significantly increased the HPE achieved with silver nano‐domes particles decoration (NF/NiCo‐2/Ag). The results showed that NF/NiCo‐2/Ag was the most efficient catalyst, as it has lower hydrogen overpotential and a higher HPE, which was detected in polarization curves, as well as being stable during the 1 × 104 s electrolysis period and having a good response during electrochemical analysis. The produced hydrogen gas volume was 108.1 mL by using NF/NiCo‐2/Ag, at the end of 30‐minute electrolysis in 1 M KOH. Nano‐structured Ag‐doped NiCo‐deposited nickel foam cathode was produced. The various quantities of catalyst were examined. NF/NiCo‐2/Ag was enhanced electrocatalytic activity and stability.