Nanostructured Metal Phosphide Based Catalysts for Electrochemical Water Splitting: A Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Renewable Energy

Background:

• Hydrogen fuel is a sustainable energy source.
• Electrochemical water splitting (EWS) produces pure hydrogen.
• Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution (HER) and oxygen evolution (OER) are key EWS steps.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review recent progress in nanostructured metal phosphide (MP)-based catalysts for EWS.
• Provide an in-depth understanding of catalytic activity and synthesis strategies.
• Address challenges and future outlook for MP catalysts in water electrolysis.

Main Methods:

• Focus on nanostructured metal phosphides (MP) as electrocatalysts.
• Utilize combined experimental (in situ/operando) and theoretical investigations.
• Analyze catalytic activity, turnover frequency (TOF), overpotential, mass activity, and stability.

Main Results:

• Low-cost MP electrocatalysts exhibit superior physicochemical properties.
• These catalysts demonstrate high TOF, low overpotential, and enhanced stability.
• MP-based catalysts are promising for practical water electrolysis and the hydrogen economy.

Conclusions:

• Nanostructured MP catalysts are vital for advancing electrochemical water splitting.
• Innovative synthesis and characterization are crucial for optimizing performance.
• MP catalysts offer a viable path towards a sustainable hydrogen economy.