Iron-Involved ORR Electrocatalysts under the Lens of In-Situ/Operando Mössbauer Spectroscopy

Sumbal Farid, CAS Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Applied Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning, China 116023; Mössbauer Effect Data Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning, China 116023
Jun-Hu Wang, CAS Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Applied Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning, China 116023; Mössbauer Effect Data Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning, China 116023 Follow

Corresponding Author

Jun-Hu Wang (wangjh@dicp.ac.cn)

Abstract

Exploring cost-effective and efficient catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) poses a significant challenge, especially in the pursuit of alternatives to precious metals like platinum. Significant advancements have driven electrochemists to develop efficient ORR catalysts using abundant materials, particularly iron (Fe)-based, known for their exceptional performance in ORR. While the crucial function of Fe in boosting ORR catalytic activity is recognized, the connection between material attributes and catalytic performance remains enigmatic. Understanding the dynamic processes involved in oxygen electrocatalysis is paramount for designing precious-metals-free ORR electrocatalysts. Mössbauer spectroscopy stands out as a powerful technique for deciphering the structural characteristics of Fe species in catalysis, facilitating the identification of active sites and the clarification of catalytic mechanisms. By showcasing noteworthy case studies within this review, we demonstrate the application of in-situ/operando ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy across diverse Fe-involved materials in ORR catalysis. This sheds light on various aspects of ORR catalysis, such as identifying active sites, assessing stability, and understanding the reaction mechanism. Our inquiry drives towards the opportunities and hurdles associated with Mössbauer spectroscopy, unveiling potential breakthroughs and avenues for enhancement within this pivotal research realm.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

Iron-based electrocatalyst, In-situ/operando analysis, Mössbauer spectroscopy, Oxygen reduction reaction, Structure-activity relationship

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.61558/2993-074X.3578

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Publication Date

2026-01-28

Online Available Date

2025-08-12

Revised Date

2025-06-24

Received Date

2025-06-25

Recommended Citation

Sumbal Farid, Jun-Hu Wang. Iron-Involved ORR Electrocatalysts under the Lens of In-Situ/Operando Mössbauer Spectroscopy[J]. Journal of Electrochemistry, 2026 , 32(1): 2506261.
DOI: 10.61558/2993-074X.3578
Available at: https://jelectrochem.xmu.edu.cn/journal/vol32/iss1/3

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