The Essential Role of Well-Defined Materials in Assessing Electrocatalyst Structure and Function

Advancements in heterogeneous electrocatalysis are essential for the transition to a sustainable future. However, current catalysts often face limitations in activity, selectivity, stability, and cost-effectiveness, highlighting the need for a detailed understanding of catalyst behavior to construct rational design strategies. This perspective focuses on the role of well-defined materials, particularly ordered intermetallics, in enhancing catalytic performance. Ordered intermetallic materials enable precise control over geometric and electronic properties, which are critical for tailoring reactivity. Their structured atomic configurations not only allow for rational control of catalytic activity but also integrate seamlessly with computational models, facilitating the design of improved materials. Additionally, we examine future research directions for intermetallics in electrocatalysis, identifying opportunities for significant breakthroughs in the field.