Ultralow dual atoms Ru-Os boosting Ni sites on hierarchical CoNiP for enhanced seawater hydrogen evolution

Cost-effective metal-based electrocatalysts are desirable for industrial water and seawater electrolysis, triggering the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with high efficiency. Here, we report the loading of ultralow-content Ru-Os dual-atom onto NiCoP nanoneedles significantly enhancing HER in seawater splitting. The localization of 0.16% Ru and 0.58% Os atoms within NiCoP induces changes in the electronic structure and coordination environment of the Ni active sites. This catalyst achieves low overpotentials (29 and 303 mV in alkaline solution, 68 and 331 mV in alkaline seawater) at 10 and 800 mA/cm 2 , respectively, demonstrating remarkable stability by maintaining performance at 500 mA/cm 2 for 24 h in alkaline and simulated seawater. Experimental and theoretical studies indicate that ultralow content Ru and Os dual atoms are immobilized on the surface of NiCoP/NF through Ru-P and Os-P bonds, leading to electron transfer and changes in the coordination environment. These results enhance the activity of Ni active sits on support, demonstrating superior HER performance in alkaline solution and seawater. Ultralow content Ru and Os dual atoms in NiCoP@Ru-Os/NF play a crucial role in reducing the Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption and lowering the d -band position of the catalyst, thereby accelerating the HER kinetic.