Enhanced electrocatalytic synthesis and degradation enabled by triboelectric effect

Abstract

Electrocatalytic technology has become an important research direction in the field of new energy conversion and pollution control due to its high efficiency and environmental protection. The triboelectric effect, as a physical phenomenon that can directly convert mechanical energy into electric energy, provides a brand-new idea for the efficient driving and enhancement of electrocatalytic process. This paper reviews the application potential of the triboelectric effect in electrocatalytic synthesis and degradation processes, systematically discussing the theoretical foundation, enhancement mechanisms, reactor design, and practical applications of triboelectric-enhanced electrocatalysis. Firstly, this paper elaborates on the theoretical foundation of the triboelectric effect in the field of electrocatalysis, with a focus on analyzing the intrinsic mechanisms of mechanical energy-driven interfacial electron transfer and active species generation. Secondly, for both catalytic synthesis and pollutant degradation, the paper examines the key role of the triboelectric effect in optimizing reaction pathways, enhancing energy conversion efficiency, and improving reaction selectivity. Subsequently, the design principles and key construction elements of triboelectric electrocatalytic reactors are summarized, and their performance in synthesizing compounds and degrading pollutants in practical applications is discussed. Finally, the paper looks ahead to the challenges and future directions of triboelectric-enhanced electrocatalysis technology, aiming to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for related fundamental research and engineering applications.