Insights into strategies of catalyst reconstruction to enhance oxygen evolution reaction performance

Abstract

Currently, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) lies at the core of renewable energy conversion and storage systems. It is a critical element in the hydrogen energy revolution and key to advancing global carbon neutrality. However, its inherent sluggish kinetics severely hinders high-efficiency and large-scale applications. Optimizing OER catalyst reconstruction represents an effective approach to enhancing catalytic performance. Through long-term exploration, a series of conventional optimization strategies has been proposed. They have successfully facilitated reconstruction optimization. Notably, numerous emerging optimization strategies with distinctive perspectives have recently come to the fore. Therefore, it is imperative to comprehensively review conventional optimization strategies and deepen the understanding of emerging ones. Starting from the fundamental principles of OER catalyst reconstruction, this review systematically elaborates on four pivotal operando characterization techniques crucial to this field. Subsequently, it delves into the optimization strategies for alkaline media, presenting an analysis that progresses from internal to external modulation and a categorized discussion on strategies for acidic media is provided. Finally, it identifies current research limitations and proposes future directions. This review aims to establish a comprehensive cognitive framework for mechanism analysis and strategy design of OER catalyst reconstruction. Moreover, it seeks to shift relevant research from empirical exploration toward rational design.