Obtaining materials from local sources: surface modification engineering enabled substrates for water splitting

The preparation of an efficient electrode is the key to achieving efficient overall water-splitting for H₂ production. Substrate surface modification engineering (SSME) provides a feasible method for preparing self-supported electrodes with high active site utilization, fast mass transport, and a simple fabrication process. This review summarizes and discusses the recent advances in preparing transition-metal-based HER/OER electrocatalysts via SSME. We first highlight the description and advantages of SSME, followed by the detailed introduction of electrocatalysts prepared via the SSME, such as hydroxides, oxyhydroxides, chalcogenides, phosphides, and borides. Finally, we provide the challenges and perspectives. We hope that this review will provide inspiration for researchers and stimulate the development of water splitting technology.