Multiple-interface engineering in Fe/FeSx/NC/MoWOxSy hybrid electrocatalyst via disproportionation reaction for efficient water splitting
Journal
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
Date Issued
2026
Author(s)
Chougule, Sourabh S.
Kulkarni, Rakesh
Chicardi, Ernesto
Alanazi, Abdullah K.
Selvam, N. Clament Sagaya
Jeffery, A. Anto
Balu, Krishnakumar
Jung, Namgee
Abstract
Developing multicomponent hybrid catalysts with optimized structures and tailored electrochemical properties is vital for efficient water splitting. Herein, iron/iron sulphide/N-doped carbon/molytungsten oxysulphide (Fe/ FeSx/NC/MoWOxSy) multicomponent hybrid catalysts are fabricated by disproportionation reaction between amorphous molytungsten oxysulphide (MoWOxSy) and iron pthalocyanine (Fe(H2Pc)). The study elucidates the role of how multiple heterointerfaces play vital role in enhancing hydrogen and oxygen evolution reaction (HER/ OER) kinetics. Structural and microscopic analyses reveal Fe/FeSx nanoparticles embedded in N-doped carbon, which envelops on 2D MoWOxSy sheets. Strong interfacial coupling between Fe/FeSx/NC and MoWOxSy modulates the electronic structure, increases conductivity, and enriches surface active sites, yielding synergistic catalytic effects. The hybrid exhibits outstanding bifunctional activity in alkaline KOH, with 1110 values of 22 mVRHE (HER) and 110 mVRHE (OER). As a bifunctional catalyst pair (Fe/FeSx/NC/MoWOxSy & Vert;"Fe/FeSx/NC/ MoWOxSy), it drives overall water splitting at 1.42 V and 10 mA cm-2, maintaining stability over 100 h. Post-catalysis analysis identifies the reconstructed FeOOH@Fe/FeSx/NC/MoWOxSy as the probable active phase, where electronic interactions and efficient charge transfer underpin surface reaction kinetics leading to exceptional performance. This multicomponent design offers a promising strategy for high-efficiency water splitting and broader electrochemical energy applications."


