Three-dimensional hierarchical MoS2 nanosheet arrays/carbon cloth as flexible electrodes for high-performance hydrogen evolution reaction

Molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) materials have been shown as promising non-precious catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), while the structure control for high-performance HER electrocatalysis remains a considerable challenge. Herein, we describe a one-pot hydrothermal approach without any surfactants and organic solvents for preparing three-dimensional electrode composed of MoS2 nanosheet arrays directly grown on carbon cloth (MoS2 NA/CC). The MoS2 NA/CC catalyst exhibits high HER performance with a low onset overpotential of 140mV, and small Tafel slope of 76mV/dec, which also exhibits excellent stability even after 3000 potential cycles with negligible loss of the cathodic current. The superior HER activity is attributed to the unique 3D hierarchical structure, which provides enriched exposed active edge sites and excellent electrical transport. [Display omitted] •3D hierarchical MoS2 NA/CC architectures were constructed by hydrothermal approach.•The MoS2 NA/CC as 3D electrode shows high HER performance and long-term stability.•The superior HER activity is attributed to the unique 3D hierarchical structure.