Study of unique and highly crystalline MoS2/MoO2 nanostructures for electro chemical applications

ABSTRACT We report the synthesis of a spectrum of highly crystalline molybdenum sulphide/oxide-based materials such as MoS2 (2-H), MoO2 and unique hybrid MoS2/MoO2 nanostructures through chemical vapour deposition (CVD). The as-fabricated samples were scrutinized with materials characterization techniques. Our results reveal that, by tuning growth parameters, different samples demonstrate unique morphologies, which can be unequivocally tied to their chemical composition. We also explore their potential application as electrochemical catalysts, which we found that in addition to using large specific surface area and conductive substrate to improve interlayer conductivity,chemical heterogeneity and efficient charge transport are also essential for good catalytic activity. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT IMPACT STATEMENT We successfully fabricated an array of uniquely shaped MoS2/MoO2 nanostructures through a one-step chemical vapour deposition process. The practical application of said nanostructures as electrochemical catalysts has also been demonstrated