Research on Electrocatalytic Materials for Hydrogen Evolution and Oxygen Evolution

Energy is one of the most pressing global challenges. Hydrogen, as an energy carrier with the highest gravimetric energy density, offers significant potential for energy storage and delivery. Moreover, it is a clean fuel, producing only water upon use. Currently, the most widely adopted method for large-scale hydrogen production is natural gas reforming, which requires substantial capital investment in infrastructure and transportation. Alternatively, hydrogen can be generated through water electrolysis, where water molecules are split into hydrogen and oxygen. However, this thermodynamically unfavorable process requires efficient catalysts to lower energy barriers, accelerate reaction rates, and improve conversion efficiency. Developing advanced yet cost-effective electrocatalysts has therefore been a long-standing objective, but it remains a significant challenge.

This reprint highlights recent advances in electrocatalytic materials for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, with the goal of informing the rational design of next-generation electrocatalysts and advancing materials research in this field. It covers a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from fundamental to applied studies, and from experimental investigations to theoretical insights.