Research progress of bipolar membrane interfacial layer catalysts: classification and performance optimization...

Bipolar membranes (BPMs), owing to their unique structure enabling efficient water dissociation and acid-base compartmentalization, have garnered significant attention in clean energy technologies such as fuel cells, water electrolysis for hydrogen production, and electrochemical CO₂ reduction. The interfacial layer, serving as the core region for water dissociation, is critically governed by the intrinsic performance of embedded catalysts, which directly impacts the overall voltage efficiency and long-term stability of BPMs. This review summarizes the research progress on BPM interfacial water dissociation catalysts over the past decade. It begins by elucidating the mechanistic models of water dissociation within BPMs and analyzes the key factors affecting catalyst activity and stability. Subsequently, a comprehensive classification and in-depth analysis are presented on state-of-the-art developments of inorganic, organic, and composite catalyst materials. This work further categorizes and introduces common catalyst optimization strategies, including intrinsic material modulation, structural design and interface engineering. Finally, the remaining critical challenges and promising future research directions are outlined, with the aim of providing insightful guidance for the development of high-performance bipolar membranes.