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Simple Methods for the Preparation of Non-noble Metal Bulk-electrodes for Electrocatalytic Applications
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Multi-site electrocatalysts for hydrogen production under neutral conditions
Zhouzhou Wang1, Jianqing Zhou2, Yaran Shi1
1Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, College of Physical Science and Technology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China. xingzhuo@ccnu.edu.cn.
Chemical Society Reviews
|November 12, 2025
Summary
Multi-site electrocatalysts enhance neutral pH hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) efficiency by optimizing water splitting steps. This review explores mechanisms, electrolytes, and interfaces for sustainable hydrogen production.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Energy
Background:
- Electrochemical water splitting is key for sustainable hydrogen, but neutral pH operation is challenging due to slow kinetics and proton transfer.
- Multi-site electrocatalysts offer a strategy to improve the neutral hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) by optimizing individual reaction steps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an in-depth analysis of HER mechanisms, electrolyte effects, and interfacial environments under neutral conditions.
- To review recent advancements in multi-site electrocatalyst design, synthesis, and performance for neutral water splitting.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on reaction mechanisms, electrolyte influences, and interfacial phenomena.
- Analysis of multi-site catalytic systems, their structural engineering, and performance metrics.
- Discussion of advanced characterization techniques and practical application prospects.
Main Results:
- Multi-site electrocatalysts effectively decouple and optimize elementary steps of the neutral HER.
- Recent progress shows improved performance metrics through tailored catalyst design and structural engineering.
- Advanced characterization aids in understanding catalyst function and interfacial behavior.
Conclusions:
- Multi-site electrocatalysts are crucial for advancing efficient neutral pH water splitting.
- Further research should focus on translating lab-scale findings to practical electrolysis systems.
- Developing next-generation electrocatalysts tailored for neutral water splitting holds significant promise.
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