Advancements and challenges in metal selenides for advanced electrocatalytic H2 evolution

Abstract

Metal selenides (MSes) have emerged as promising electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), due to their abundant reserves, tunable electronic structures, diverse phase compositions, and favorable electrical conductivity. However, the electrocatalytic performance of MSes is still constrained by inherent limitations such as insufficient active sites and sluggish reaction kinetics. This review focuses on the applications of MSes-based HER electrocatalysts. Therein, the unique structure and electronic properties of MSes are first highlighted. Subsequently, the fabrication approaches and performance modulation strategies of MSes-based electrocatalysts are explicated systematically. Afterwards, we encapsulate the electrocatalytic mechanism of MSes from both in-situ characterization and theoretical calculations. Finally, the forwardlooking perspectives and insightful development directions on the rational design and practical application of high-performance MSes electrocatalysts are proposed. This review aims to offer deepened insights and targeted guidance for developing highly active MSes-based catalysts.