Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Acidic Conditions: Recent Progress and Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy Technologies

Background:

• The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a critical half-cell reaction for energy conversion and storage technologies.
• Proton exchange membrane (PEM)-based devices offer advantages like high proton conductivity and durability for green energy applications.
• Developing highly active and acid-stable OER catalysts is essential for the commercialization of PEM devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed discussion of the OER mechanism under acidic conditions.
• To systematically summarize recent advancements in acid-stable OER catalyst development.
• To identify current challenges and propose future directions for acidic OER catalysis.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent theoretical calculations.
• Analysis of in situ/operando characterization techniques.
• Systematic summarization of noble metal, non-noble metal, and metal-free OER catalysts.

Main Results:

• Detailed insights into the OER mechanism in acidic environments.
• Comprehensive overview of various acid-stable OER catalyst types.
• Identification of key challenges and future research avenues in acidic OER catalysis.

Conclusions:

• Acid-stable OER catalysts are vital for the advancement of PEM-based green energy devices.
• Continued research into novel materials and understanding reaction mechanisms will drive progress.
• Addressing current challenges will pave the way for commercialization and broader adoption.