C and N Hybrid Coordination Derived Co−C−N Complex as a Highly Efficient Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

ABSTRACT: Development of an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst composed of earth-abundant elements is scientifically and technologically important for the water splitting associated with the conversion and storage of renewable energy. Herein we report a new class of Co−C−N complex bonded carbon (only 0.22 at % Co) for HER with a self-supported and three-dimensional porous structure that shows an unexpected catalytic activity with low overpotential (212 mV at 100 mA cm−2) and long-term stability, better than that of most traditional-metal catalysts. Experimental observations in combination with density functional theory calculations reveal that C and N hybrid coordination optimizes the charge distribution and enhances the electron transfer, which synergistically promotes th