LAUSR

Abstract This paper is a report on the development of a convenient approach to fabricating a very efficient hybrid photoelectrocatalyst for water splitting. This photoelectrocatalyst consists of nickel-cobalt layered double hydroxide as the core, cadmium sulfide as the shell, and nitrogen, hence NiCo-LDH@CdS-N. For the electrocatalytic activity to be improved, the H2 and O2 binding energy needs to be weakened. The interstitial nitrogen doping on NiCo-LDH@CdS can increase electrocatalytic activity to a great extent. NiCo-LDH@CdS nanoparticles are obtained by subjecting to nitriding the NiCo-LDH@CdS electrode coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone nanosheets. This electrode has a large specific surface area, allows fast transfer of electrons, and exhibits long-term stability. The experimental results presented in this paper reveal that interstitial nitrogen doping largely reduces H2 and O2 binding energy and lowers the activation barrier for the formation and splitting of water.