Porous inorganic nanostructures with colloidal dimensions: synthesis and applications in electrochemical energy devices

Abstract

Porous inorganic nanostructures with colloidal dimensions can be considered as ideal components of electrochemical devices that operate on renewable energy sources. They combine nanoscale properties with good accessibility, a high number of active sites, short diffusion distances and good processability. Herein, we review some of the liquid-phase routes that lead to the controlled synthesis of these nanostructures in the form of non-hollow, hollow or yolk–shell configurations. From solar and fuel cells to batteries and supercapacitors, we put special emphasis on showing how these sophisticated structures can enhance the efficiency of electrochemical energy devices.