Advances in Electrocatalytic Adipic Acid Synthesis: Nanostructural Catalyst Optimization and Its Application for Hydrogen Co-Production

Abstract

The electrocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexanone/cyclohexanol (COR) to adipic acid offers a sustainable alternative to conventional nitric acid-based processes, enabling environmentally benign production of key nylon intermediates under mild conditions. However, the multistep nature of COR, involving complex intermediates and sluggish kinetics, necessitates the development of highly efficient and selective electrocatalysts. In recent years, nanostructure engineering has emerged as a powerful strategy to address these challenges by modulating surface chemistry, electronic structure, and interfacial environments. Such approaches are particularly advantageous for COR, where precise control over intermediate adsorption and reaction pathways is critical. In this review, we first summarize the fundamental reaction mechanisms and key performance metrics of COR. Subsequently, representative nanostructure engineering strategies including surface functionalization, defect engineering, heteroatom doping, and heterointerface construction, are discussed with emphasis on their structure-activity relationships. Furthermore, emerging practical applications are highlighted, including paired electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals, COR-assisted hydrogen production, and device-level integration in flow electrolyzers. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are outlined to guide the rational design of advanced electrocatalysts for efficient adipic acid production.