Recent Advances in Efficient Seawater Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalysts

Abstract

Hydrogen is widely recognized as a clean energy source with vast potential to facilitate the shift toward sustainable energy systems. Seawater electrolysis presents a promising approach for large-scale hydrogen production, capitalizing on the abundance of seawater and highlighting its significant role in future hydrogen applications. However, despite its scalability, major challenges persist—most notably, the development of high-performance, durable electrocatalysts capable of continuous operation while resisting the corrosive effects of chloride ions in seawater. In recent years, substantial progress has been achieved in the development of efficient electrocatalysts for seawater electrolysis. This review provides an in-depth analysis of recent developments in seawater hydrogen evolution catalysts, systematically discussing hydrogen production fundamentals, key reaction mechanisms, and persistent challenges. We compare the performance of noble metal and transition metal catalysts for seawater hydrogenation reactions and analyze their advantages and limitations. Subsequently, the focus is on exploring new ways to enhance catalytic performance through strategies such as improving catalyst conductivity, optimizing electronic effects, and enhancing catalyst synergies to facilitate efficient and stable progress in electrocatalyst design, and concludes with insights into future prospects in this field.