Transition metal phosphide electrocatalysts for water electrolysis: synthetic strategies, mechanistic insights, and practical cllenges

Abstract

The depletion of fossil fuels and the urgent need for sustainable energy have intensified interest in hydrogen production via water electrolysis. Transition metal phosphides (TMPs) have emerged as promising alternatives to noble metal catalysts due to their high catalytic activity, stability, and cost-effectiveness. This review systematically summarizes its main synthesis methods and reviews the research progress of TMP in water electrolysis and seawater electrolysis. The focus is on the electrolytic water performance of TMPs under different pH conditions and the challenges and optimization strategies they face in seawater electrolysis. Finally, we provide insights into the future research directions of TMPs catalysts for water electrolysis, aiming to guide the rational design and practical application of high -performance catalysts. This review is a valuable reference for advancing TMP-based water electrolysis technology.