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Corresponding Author

Jin-song HU(hujs@iccas.ac.cn)

Abstract

Electrocatalytic water splitting is pivotal for efficient and economical production of hydrogen and oxygen gasses. However, the efficiency of the whole device is largely limited by the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode due to its sluggish kinetics. Thus, it is imperative to develop inexpensive, highly active OER catalysts to lower the reaction barriers. By examining the underlying critical factors for OER performance, this review outlines general principles for designing efficient nanosized OER catalysts, including (1) enhancing the intrinsic activity of active site by electronic modulation, crystallinity modulation, phase control, defect engineering and spin state engineering; (2) designing appropriate micro/meso/macro structure with high electrical conductivity and mechanical stability to maximize the quantity of accessible active sites, and to promote electron transfer during OER process, as well as to achieve high durability especially at high current density. A series of highly efficient OER catalysts developed by our and other groups are then exemplified to demonstrate the guidance of these principles. At last, some perspectives are highlighted in the further development of efficient OER electrocatalysts, of which can contribute greatly to the achievement in large-scale commercialization of electrocatalytic water-splitting technology.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

oxygen evolution reaction, water splitting, electrocatalysts, design principles, hydrogen production

Publication Date

2018-10-28

Online Available Date

2018-07-20

Revised Date

2018-07-04

Received Date

2018-06-12

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