Integrated hetero-nanoelectrodes for plasmon-enhanced electrocatalysis of hydrogen evolution

Hetero-nanostructures of plasmonic metals and semiconductors have attracted increasing attention in the field of photocatalysis. However, most of the hetero-nanostructured catalysts are randomly arranged and therefore require comprehensive structural design for optimizing their properties. Herein, we report the robust construction of hierarchical hetero-nanostructures where gold (Au) nanorods and molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) quantum sheets (QSs) are integrated in highly ordered arrays. Such construction is achieved through porous anodic alumina (PAA) template-assisted electrodeposition. The as-fabricated hetero-nanostructures demonstrate exciting electrocatalysis towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Both plasmon-induced hot-electron injection and plasmonic scattering/reabsorption mechanisms are determinative to the enhanced electrocatalytic performances. Notably, broadband photoresponses of HER activity in the visible range are observed, indicating their superiority compared with random systems. Such integrated hetero-nanoelectrodes could provide a powerful platform for conversion and utilization of solar energy, meanwhile would greatly prompt the production and exploration of ordered nanoelectrodes.