Determination of the kinetics of the hydrogen evolution reaction by the galvanostatic step technique

The galvanostatic step technique was used to study the kinetics of the hydrogen evolution reaction (her). A mathematical model and a numerical procedure allowing approximation of the potential–time curves and determination of the rate constants of the Volmer and Heyrovsky reactions were developed. This model was successfully applied for studying the kinetics of the her on polycrystalline and porous nickel electrodes in alkaline solutions. Results obtained are in good agreement with those determined by the open circuit potential decay and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy combined with Tafel curves.