Ni–CeO2 composite cathode material for hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte

In this work, nickel-based electrodes were prepared using composite electrodeposition technique in a nickel sulphamate bath containing suspended micro- or nano-sized CeO2 particles. The prepared Ni–CeO2 composite electrodes exhibit an enhanced high catalytic activity toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline solutions. X-ray diffraction patterns indicated that the CeO2 particles have been successfully incorporated into the Ni matrix and altered the texture coefficient (TC) of the Ni layer. The morphology of the obtained coatings was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, and the CeO2 content was determined by coupled energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. The thermal stability of the composite electrodes was analyzed by thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry, showing a good thermal stability. The catalytic activity of the composite electrodes for HER was measured by steady-state polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques in 1.0 M NaOH solution at room temperature. The exchange current density of HER on the Ni–CeO2 composite electrodes was much higher than that on Ni electrode. EIS results suggested that a synergetic effect on HER may exist between CeO2 particles and Ni matrix. Compared to nano-CeO2, the micro-CeO2 derived composite electrodes showed higher electrochemical activity. The possible correlation among particle size, content and catalytic activity is discussed. ► The correlation of synthesis-structure-activity is studied on Ni–CeO2 materials. ► The composite CeO2 particles embedded in Ni matrix can increase the HER activity. ► A synergetic effect between CeO2 particles and Ni matrix may exist in HER.