Interfacial water structure engineering for enhanced electrocatalytic hydrogen production

Abstract

Electrocatalytic hydrogen production serves as a clean and efficient energy conversion technology that plays a vital role in achieving sustainable energy supply. However, the energy conversion efficiency in electrocatalytic processes is often limited by complex electrode–electrolyte interfacial behaviors, particularly the influence of interfacial water structures. Recent studies have shown that rational control of interfacial water structures can significantly enhance catalytic performance, although a systematic understanding of the relationship between the water structure and hydrogen evolution performance remains elusive. This review summarized recent advances in the field of interfacial water structure regulation, aiming to reveal how different control strategies affect electrocatalytic hydrogen production performance. We clarified the fundamental characteristics of interfacial water and its critical role in proton transfer kinetics and intermediate adsorption energetics. We then discussed various control strategies in detail, including chemical modification, physical field regulation, nanostructure design and dynamic regulation. Furthermore, this review addressed the current technical challenges and future research directions in interfacial water structure regulation. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing research and an outlook on future development trends, this paper provides new perspectives and ideas for further optimizing the performance of electrocatalytic hydrogen production.