Progress and Challenges of Transition Metal–Based Compound Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media

Abstract

Water electrolysis is a pivotal route for hydrogen production and the realization of clean energy production. The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a key step in this process, necessitating efficient electrocatalysts to accelerate the inherently sluggish and complex reaction kinetics. Noble metal catalysts are considered the most efficient OER catalysts. However, their high cost and scarcity limit their extensive application. In contrast, transition metal–based compounds (TMCs) catalysts have attracted widespread attention due to their high electronic conductivity, tunable electronic configurations, and relatively low cost. Nevertheless, achieving long-term stability in alkaline media for these catalysts remains a severe challenge. The research progress regarding the active sites of the transition metal elements in alkaline OER is summarized. More importantly, this review delves into strategies aimed to enhancing the activity and stability of TMCs catalysts, adopting an electronic modulation perspective. These strategies encompass defect, doping, and interface engineering. Moreover, this review reveals the OER mechanism and current development status of TMCs catalysts from the perspective of catalyst dynamic reconstruction. Finally, some challenges and prospects for improving the performance of TMCs catalysts are proposed. It is anticipated that this review will offer valuable insights and guidance for the design of more efficient TMCs catalysts.