Interfacial electronic modulation in heterostructured OER electrocatalysts: a review

Abstract

This review systematically addresses the global energy crisis and environmental challenges by examining heterostructured electrocatalysts as transformative solutions for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). It establishes how interfacial electronic redistribution—manifested through d-band center modulation, built-in electric fields (BIEF), and defect engineering—optimizes adsorption energetics of critical intermediates (OH*/O*/OOH*) to overcome intrinsic kinetic limitations. The analysis classifies heterostructures into seven categories based on compositional and architectural principles, while evaluating synthesis strategies (hydrothermal, CVD, etc.) for precise interface control. Key advantages including synergistic effects, enhanced stability, and improved mass transport are critically examined alongside fundamental mechanisms revealed through in situ characterization and density functional theory (DFT) modeling. Current challenges in scalability, pH-adaptability, and long-term durability are addressed, with future perspectives highlighting multi-interface engineering, stimuli-responsive systems, and AI-guided design for sustainable energy conversion.