A self-template synthesis of defect-rich WS2 as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction

Defect-rich tungsten disulfide (WS2) nanosheets are synthesized via a self-template method, in which tungsten oxide is partially sulfurized to form WS2/WO3 nanosheets. The defect-rich WS2 nanosheets only require an overpotential of 145 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm(-2) with a Tafel slope of 58.5 mV dec(-1) and exhibit excellent stability in 0.5 M H2SO4 electrolyte.