Localized hetero-ion modulation engineering over nickel-based catalyst for electrochemical urea oxidation

Abstract

Electrochemical urea oxidation reaction (UOR) offers the effective alternative for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in electrochemical production of hydrogen source, yet the nickel (Ni)-based catalysts show the inferior reaction kinetics. To address the performance limitations, localized hetero-ion modulation for intrinsic properties of Ni-based catalysts has evolved to meet the practical expectations. The modulation over local coordination environment by incorporated hetero-ion is imperative for enhancing the intrinsic catalytic activity and efficiency of nickel-based catalysts. Illuminated by the profound influence, a systematic comprehension of localized hetero-ion modulation over UOR is instantly supplied in this review to construct the atomic insight for catalytic mechanism and catalyst design within Ni catalyst. Beginning with the introduction of electrochemical reaction pathways for UOR, the physiochemical properties of Ni(OH)2 and universal scaling relations of reaction intermediates are depicted to guide the fundamental understanding of structure-derived electrochemical behavior for UOR. Subsequently, the specific functions of hetero-ion species for enhancement of UOR in Ni catalyst are delved into the closed relation between localized reaction site formats and reaction pathways. In the end, a closed-loop framework with conclusion of this review is delivered over hetero-ion modulation formats to advance the data-driven catalysis investigation of electrochemical UOR within Ni catalyst. We believe that this review will attract pronounced attention for advancement of electrochemical UOR.