Reduced Gas Bubble Adhesion on Superaerophobic Nickel Metal Surface Enables Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Electrocatalytic water splitting is crucial for the development of the renewable energy industry. However, gas bubble attachment to the electrode surface has severely limited the electrochemical performance. In this study, we develop a superaerophobic nickel-based catalyst by electrodeposition onto pencil-drawn non-conducting A4 paper. We reveal that phosphorus (P) doping in the nickel metal causes lattice contraction and cracked electrode surface, creating a superaerophobic electrode surface, as supported by first-principles calculations and surface tension measurement. The improved catalytic performance results from the superaerophobic electrode surfaces with minimal gas bubble adhesion, outperforming commercial Pt plates, particularly at higher current densities. P-doping also enhances the corrosion resistance of the electrode to the electrolyte and contributes to its structural stability. Our findings suggest a promising strategy for developing highly efficient electrocatalysts with improved stability.