Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 25, 2026

Synthesis of Platinum-nickel Nanowires and Optimization for Oxygen Reduction Performance
Published on: April 27, 2018
Spinels: Controlled Preparation, Oxygen Reduction/Evolution Reaction Application, and Beyond
Qing Zhao1, Zhenhua Yan1, Chengcheng Chen1
1Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry, Nankai University , Tianjin 300071, China.
Abstract:
Spinels with the formula of AB2O4 (where A and B are metal ions) and the properties of magnetism, optics, electricity, and catalysis have taken significant roles in applications of data storage, biotechnology, electronics, laser, sensor, conversion reaction, and energy storage/conversion, which largely depend on their precise structures and compositions. In this review, various spinels with controlled preparations and their applications in oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) and beyond are summarized. First, the composition and structure of spinels are introduced. Then, recent advances in the preparation of spinels with solid-, solution-, and vapor-phase methods are summarized, and new methods are particularly highlighted. The physicochemical characteristics of spinels such as their compositions, structures, morphologies, defects, and substrates have been rationally regulated through various approaches. This regulation can yield spinels with improved ORR/OER catalytic activities, which can further accelerate the speed, prolong the life, and narrow the polarization of fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and water splitting devices. Finally, the magnetic, optical, electrical, and catalytic applications beyond the OER/ORR are also discussed. The future applications of spinels are considered to be closely related to environmental and energy issues, which will be aided by the development of new species with precise preparations and advanced characterizations.
Related Concept Videos
Redox Reactions
Redox Reactions
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Preparation and Reactions of Sulfides
Oxidation and Reduction of Organic Molecules
The removal of an electron from a molecule, results in a...
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Potassium Permanganate

