Synthesis and electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of Ni–Mo–Cu alloy coating electrode

• Ni–Mo–Cu coating electrode was prepared by constant current electrodeposition.
• Ni–Mo–Cu alloy coating electrode presents a most efficient activity for HER.
• Parameters affecting the HER activity are systematically investigated.
• A synergistic effect and high surface area contribute to the high HER efficiency.

Ni–Mo–Cu alloy coating electrode was prepared on copper substrate by constant current electrodeposition and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The electrochemical characterization for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) curves, linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. Parameters affecting the electrocatalytic activity for the HER are systematically investigated. Results show the Ni–Mo–Cu coating by the introduction of Cu has a rough and cauliflower-like structure and presents a most efficient activity for HER in comparison with binary Ni–Mo electrode. Its remarkably enhanced catalytic activity is attributed to the high surface area as well as synergistic interaction between Ni, Mo and Cu.