Aerogels as next-generation electrocatalysts for water electrolysis and beyond

Abstract

The rising energy demand and depletion of conventional fuels have led to intensified interest in water-splitting as a sustainable clean energy resolution. Accordingly, developing efficient catalytic materials have become vital for advancing key electrochemical processes, including the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and overall water electrolysis, which are essential for energy conversion technologies (e.g., metal-air batteries, fuel cells, and water-splitting devices). Given the need for innovative solutions in this domain, aerogel (AG)-based materials have emerged as leading candidates, distinguished by their highly porous microstructure, tunable properties, and diverse synthesis approaches. The goal of this review is to offer a thorough examination of AG catalysts, elucidating why they are pivotal for addressing current challenges in electrocatalysis. We explore their synthesis techniques, structural characterization methods, and roles in enhancing electrochemical kinetics and electrode activity. The discussion extends to their ability to lower overpotentials, boost catalytic performance, and prolong cycle life, making them indispensable for sustainable energy applications. Furthermore, the incorporation of Density Functional Theory (DFT) as a computational tool provides deeper insights into molecular pathways and reaction mechanisms in water-splitting, strengthening the connection between experimental and theoretical studies. Finally, this review identifies future directions and addresses the challenges in developing cost-effective, high-efficiency AG-based catalysts, underscoring their potential to transform clean energy production.