Developments of Metal Phosphides as Efficient OER Precatalysts.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Metal phosphides are emerging as effective electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
• Research on OER using these catalysts is less extensive compared to HER.
• OER involves complex chemistry, including irreversible surface oxidation of catalysts to oxides/oxyhydroxides, which can enhance activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of metal phosphides as electrocatalysts for water oxidation.
• To highlight the importance of in situ transformations in enhancing catalytic performance.
• To discuss current developments and future prospects in this field.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of existing research on metal phosphides for HER and OER.
• Focus on iron, cobalt, and nickel phosphides.
• Examination of catalyst structures, compositions, surface modifications, and in situ transformations.

Main Results:

• Metal phosphides, particularly those of Fe, Co, and Ni, demonstrate significant potential as electrocatalysts for water oxidation.
• In situ oxidation to metal oxides/oxyhydroxides often leads to improved catalytic activity and stability.
• Understanding these transformations is key to designing superior electrocatalysts.

Conclusions:

• Metal phosphides are promising candidates for efficient electrocatalysis in water splitting.
• Further research into their surface chemistry and in situ evolution is crucial for optimizing OER performance.
• This perspective offers insights into the future development of advanced electrocatalysts.