Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Hydrogen Production and Utilization in a Membrane Reactor
Published on: March 10, 2023
Unravelling hetero-intermediate interactions in electrocatalytic hydrogenation: a framework for mechanistic
Hanle Liu1,2, Shunhan Jia1,2, Ruhan Wang1,2
1Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China. sunxiaofu@iccas.ac.cn.
Abstract:
Electrocatalytic hydrogenation (ECH) reaction offers a sustainable route for upgrading renewable feedstocks using water as the hydrogen source. However, its efficiency and selectivity are often limited by the complex interplay between hetero-intermediates, such as water-derived hydrogen species and diverse hydrogen acceptors, making it difficult to control reaction pathways and mechanisms. This review aims to provide an insight into ECH reactions. Three representative models, including coupling, competitive, and promotion, are introduced to capture the dominant interaction modes among intermediates at key steps during reaction. By focusing on how these interactions shape pathway evolution and product selectivity, the framework provides mechanistic clarity for interpreting complex ECH systems and understanding performance regulation. An outlook on the current challenges and promising opportunities in this field is also discussed. This review offers a constructive perspective for understanding mechanism and performance regulation of efficient ECH reactions.
More Related Videos
12:08Catalytic Reactions at Amine-Stabilized and Ligand-Free Platinum Nanoparticles Supported on Titania During Hydrogenation of Alkenes and Aldehydes
Published on: June 24, 2022
10:01Protein Film Infrared Electrochemistry Demonstrated for Study of H2 Oxidation by a [NiFe] Hydrogenase
Published on: December 4, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Catalysis
Catalysis
Heterogeneous Catalysis
Reduction of Alkenes: Catalytic Hydrogenation
Metals like palladium, platinum, and nickel are commonly used in their solid forms — fine powder on an inert surface. As these catalysts remain insoluble in the reaction mixture, they are referred to as heterogeneous catalysts.
The hydrogenation process takes place on the surface of...
Reduction of Alkenes: Asymmetric Catalytic Hydrogenation
The metal catalyst used can be either heterogeneous or homogeneous. When hydrogenation of an alkene generates a chiral center, a pair of enantiomeric products is expected to form. However, an enantiomeric excess of one of the products can be facilitated using an enantioselective reaction or an...
Introduction to Mechanisms of Enzyme Catalysis