MoS₂ Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: Progress, Challenges, and Perspectives

Md. Fardin Ahosan Sojib; Kazi Mamunur Rahman Rifat; Md. Abtahi Islam Fahim; Md. Saiful Islam Shanto; Md. Rasel   Islam; Md. Sihabul Islam Arpon

doi:10.38032/scse.2026.4.238

Authors

Md. Fardin Ahosan Sojib Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh.
Kazi Mamunur Rahman Rifat Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh and Department of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh.
Md. Abtahi Islam Fahim Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh.
Md. Saiful Islam Shanto Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh.
Md. Rasel Islam Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh.
Md. Sihabul Islam Arpon Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology, Rajshahi-6204, Bangladesh.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.38032/scse.2026.4.238

Keywords:

MoS2, Electrocatalyst, Hydrogen Evolution Reaction, Nanostructures, Renewable Energy

Abstract

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) has emerged as one of the most promising non-precious electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), owing to its earth abundance, tunable electronic structure, and high catalytic activity at edge sites. Unlike platinum-based catalysts, MoS₂ offers a cost-effective and scalable alternative, yet its performance is limited by poor electrical conductivity, low intrinsic activity of basal planes, and stability challenges under long-term operation. Recent progress in engineering strategies such as defect creation, phase modulation, heteroatom doping, and hybridization with conductive substrates has significantly improved charge transport and increased the density of active sites. Moreover, integration with carbon-based materials and development of nanostructured architectures have enhanced durability and efficiency in acidic and alkaline electrolytes. Despite these advances, challenges remain in achieving industrial-scale performance, understanding mechanistic pathways at the atomic level, and ensuring long-term stability under realistic operating conditions. This paper reviews recent developments in MoS₂-based HER electrocatalysts, highlights critical challenges, and outlines future perspectives toward designing highly active, durable, and scalable MoS₂ systems for sustainable hydrogen production.

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