Lattice engineering of catalysts for water electrolysis and hydrogen fuel cells

Abstract

Hydrogen has emerged as a pivotal energy vector for future low-carbon systems, due to its high energy density and zero carbon emissions. However, the efficiency, economic feasibility and sustainability of both hydrogen production and utilization hinge critically on advances in core catalytic materials. Lattice engineering, as a frontier strategy for atomic-level structural control, systematically modulates crystal structures to precisely regulate the electronic states and surface chemistry of catalysts, thereby enhancing catalytic performance. This review highlights the novelty of lattice engineering as a unified paradigm that integrates strain, doping, defect, phase, facet, and interface engineering. By bridging atomic-scale design with catalytic mechanisms and device-level implementations, a cross-scale framework for hydrogen energy catalysis is established. Representative examples demonstrate the significant improvements in activity, stability, and durability enabled by lattice engineering. Finally, device-level evaluations of lattice-engineered catalysts are discussed, and forward-looking perspectives are outlined for the development of next-generation hydrogen-energy catalytic materials.