Electroplated synthesis of Ni–P–UFD, Ni–P–CNTs, and Ni–P–UFD–CNTs composite coatings as hydrogen evolution electrodes

Ni–P–ultrafine diamond (UFD), Ni–P–carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and Ni–P–UFD–CNTs composite coatings have been electroplated and their hydrogen evolution reaction was studied. Ni–P–CNTs performed the highest catalytic activity though all of the composite electrodes were more active than the Ni–P electrode, which is tightly related to their structures dissolved by hydrogen when prepared. With increasing temperature, the ability of hydrogen evolution of the electrodes was promoted. UFD and CNTs played a cooperating role. The effect of heat treatment was also determined, it is disadvantageous in alkaline environment while not in acid solution.