Research Progress in Structure Evolution and Durability Modulation of Ir- and Ru-Based OER Catalysts under Acidic...

Area of Science:

• Catalysis
• Renewable Energy
• Materials Science

Background:

• Green hydrogen is a key energy carrier for addressing energy and environmental concerns.
• Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are critical for water electrolysis but face durability issues.
• Harsh conditions in water electrolysis cause catalyst degradation, hindering commercialization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the latest research on OER catalyst durability from thermodynamic and kinetic viewpoints.
• To summarize strategies for developing stable and active electrocatalysts for water electrolysis.
• To discuss future prospects for Ru/Ir-based catalysts in hydrogen production.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of structural deactivation processes in noble metal oxide catalysts.
• Discussion of catalyst structural evolution for enhanced durability.
• Summary of four new strategies: electron buffer (ECB), combination strength control, strain control, and surface coating.

Main Results:

• Noble metal oxides in catalysts often convert to soluble species under electrolysis conditions, reducing durability.
• Strategies like ECB, combination strength, strain control, and surface coating offer pathways to stable catalysts.
• Understanding thermodynamic and kinetic factors is crucial for designing durable OER catalysts.

Conclusions:

• Overcoming durability challenges in acidic conditions is vital for large-scale water electrolysis.
• Advanced catalyst design strategies are needed to achieve both high activity and durability.
• Further research on Ru/Ir-based catalysts holds promise for efficient green hydrogen production.