Direct electrocatalytic epoxidation of olefins: advances in membrane electrode assemblies and beyond

Abstract

Electrocatalytic epoxidation of olefins represents a promising and sustainable pathway for producing high-value epoxides, such as propylene oxide. This review comprehensively examines recent advancements in catalyst design and membrane electrode assembly (MEA) reactor engineering, while also addressing persistent challenges including catalyst cost, stability, and mass transfer limitations. Although MEA technologies have achieved remarkable progress, exemplified by an over 25% reduction in energy consumption, their industrial deployment remains constrained by issues such as Nafion membrane degradation and inefficient transport of long-chain olefins. Future research endeavors should prioritize the development of cost-effective, durable catalytic systems and their seamless integration with renewable energy sources to facilitate the large-scale implementation of green electrochemical epoxidation processes.