Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Electrolytes: Mechanisms, Challenges, and Prospective Solutions

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is crucial for clean hydrogen fuel production.
• Current catalysts efficient in acidic media show reduced performance in alkaline environments due to sluggish kinetics and water dissociation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in overcoming kinetic limitations for alkaline HER.
• To explore synthesis of materials with tailored morphologies and electronic structures for efficient HER catalysis.
• To discuss the application of these advanced catalysts in energy systems.

Main Methods:

• Fundamentals and electrochemistry of HER are explained.
• Requirements for efficient and stable alkaline HER catalysts are outlined.
• Synthesis methods for advanced nanostructures (carbon, noble, and inexpensive metals) are described.

Main Results:

• Modified morphologies and electronic structures enhance active sites for alkaline HER.
• Heterogeneous structures offer ideal systems to study structure-activity relationships and synergy.
• Advanced nanostructured catalysts demonstrate improved electrochemical efficiencies.

Conclusions:

• Addressing kinetic challenges is vital for efficient alkaline HER.
• Tailoring catalyst active sites through material design is a promising approach.
• Future research should focus on optimizing catalysts for improved electrochemical performance and stability.