Abstract: Foam Ni-supported Ni-WC electrocatalysts were prepared using direct chemical reduction and intermittent microwave heating methods. The electrocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that the onset potential for the hydrogen evolution reaction on the foam Ni-WC electrocatalyst is 60 mV more positive than that on the pure foam Ni electrocatalyst. The concentration of the electrolyte and the temperature are critical for the catalytic performance of the foam Ni-WC electrocatalyst.

Key words: chemical reduction, microwave, foam nickel, tungsten carbide, supported catalyst, hydrogen evolution, electrocatalysis