Recent Advances of Electrocatalyst and Cell Design for Hydrogen Peroxide Production

Electrochemical synthesis of H₂O₂ via a selective two-electron oxygen reduction reaction has emerged as an attractive alternative to the current energy-consuming anthraquinone process. Herein, the progress on electrocatalysts for H₂O₂ generation, including noble metal, transition metal-based, and carbon-based materials, is summarized. At first, the design strategies employed to obtain electrocatalysts with high electroactivity and high selectivity are highlighted. Then, the critical roles of the geometry of the electrodes and the type of reactor in striking a balance to boost the H₂O₂ selectivity and reaction rate are systematically discussed. After that, a potential strategy to combine the complementary properties of the catalysts and the reactor for optimal selectivity and overall yield is illustrated. Finally, the remaining challenges and promising opportunities for high-efficient H₂O₂ electrochemical production are highlighted for future studies.