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Interfacial electronic modulation in heterostructured OER electrocatalysts: a review
Xianglong Dai1, Yechen Qian1, Zijia Xu1
1School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai 201620, China. liwenyao314@gmail.com.
Nanoscale
|October 4, 2025
Summary
Heterostructured electrocatalysts offer a promising solution to the energy crisis by optimizing the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Interface engineering enhances efficiency and stability for sustainable energy conversion.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Catalysis
Background:
- Global energy crisis and environmental challenges necessitate advanced energy conversion technologies.
- The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a critical bottleneck in many sustainable energy systems, such as water splitting and metal-air batteries.
- Developing efficient and stable electrocatalysts is paramount for overcoming these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review heterostructured electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which interfacial electronic redistribution optimizes OER kinetics.
- To classify heterostructures and evaluate synthesis strategies for enhanced performance.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review and analysis of heterostructured electrocatalysts.
- Examination of interfacial electronic redistribution mechanisms (d-band center modulation, BIEF, defect engineering).
- Classification of heterostructures based on composition and architecture, and evaluation of synthesis methods (hydrothermal, CVD, etc.).
- Analysis of synergistic effects, stability, mass transport, and fundamental mechanisms using in situ characterization and DFT modeling.
Main Results:
- Heterostructured electrocatalysts significantly enhance OER kinetics by optimizing adsorption energetics of intermediates.
- Seven categories of heterostructures are identified based on compositional and architectural principles.
- Synergistic effects, enhanced stability, and improved mass transport are key advantages.
- In situ characterization and DFT modeling reveal fundamental mechanisms of performance enhancement.
Conclusions:
- Heterostructured electrocatalysts represent a transformative approach to addressing the OER bottleneck.
- Precise interface control through advanced synthesis strategies is crucial for maximizing catalytic activity and durability.
- Future research directions include multi-interface engineering, stimuli-responsive systems, and AI-guided design for next-generation sustainable energy solutions.
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