Optimization of Ni-Mo Coated Stainless Steel as a High-Performance Cathode in Alkaline Water Electrolysis

Due to the importance of low cost and efficient electrodes development for alkaline water electrolysis, optimization of Ni-Mo coated stainless steel is investigated in the work to use as the cathode of alkaline water electrolyser. The crystallographic structure and surface morphology and composition of the studied coatings is characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrocatalytic activity for the Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is evaluated using electrochemical measurement. Also, optimization of electrodeposition bath is investigated to promote the catalytic activity for HER. The results show that Nickel-Molybdenum alloy exhibits better HER activity and at -1.7 V vs. Ag/AgCl, current density of 180 mA cm − 2 is achieved. Also, the cell analysis tests revealed that using optimized electrode, at current density of 1.5 A.cm − 2 and operating temperature of 60°C, the cell operates at 1.9 V that is compatible to use for large scale industrial alkaline water electrolysis units.