Themed collection EES Catalysis Recent Review Articles


Shining light on hybrid perovskites for photoelectrochemical solar to fuel conversion
Hybrid halide perovskites (HaPs) represent a class of materials with excellent optoelectronic properties providing distinct avenues for disruptive photo(-electro) catalytic technologies.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1072-1091
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00091A

Exploring opportunities in operando DRIFTS and complementary techniques for advancing plasma catalysis
Exploring the dynamic interaction of non-thermal plasma (NTP) with catalytic processes is critical to unravelling elusive catalyst structure–function relationships under NTP conditions, specifically dielectric barrier discharges (DBD).
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1059-1071
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00088A

Direction of oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalyst evaluation for an anion exchange membrane CO2 electrolyzer
The reference electrode-integrated MEA-type electrolyzer can be utilized to genuinely assess OER electrocatalyst performance for CO2 electrolysis.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 911-922
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00314K

Surpassing water-splitting potential in aqueous redox flow batteries: insights from kinetics and thermodynamics
Aqueous redox flow batteries (AQRFBs) employing non-flammable electrolytes are recognized for their inherent safety and eco-friendliness, making them promising candidates for large-scale energy storage systems.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 522-544
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00231D

High-pressure electrochemistry: a new frontier in decarbonization
Higher pressures can positively impact electrochemical activity, selectivity, stability, and efficiency.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 507-521
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00284E

Reaction microenvironment control in membrane electrode assemblies for CO2 electrolysis
This perspective discusses the latest achievements in activity and selectivity control in CO2 electrolysis by tuning reaction microenvironments.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 220-230
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00155E

Advances and challenges in scalable carbon dioxide electrolysis
This perspective illustrates ways to achieve scalable CO2 electrolysis by designing efficient electrolyzers and regulating the catalytic reaction environments.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 934-949
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00159H

Copper-based catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation: a perspective on active sites
This Perspective reviews the understanding of active sites on various Cu-based materials for the CO2 hydrogenation to high-value products from theoretical and experimental advances.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 921-933
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00152K

A perspective of COx conversion to aromatics
The sustainable production of chemicals through COx hydrogenation is a growing area of interest, with thermal catalytic conversion showing the most promise.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 677-686
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00102D

Advanced dual-atom catalysts for efficient oxygen evolution reaction
This perspective discusses the latest exciting advancements in dual-atom catalysts (DACs) for the oxygen evolution reaction and battery devices, highlighting the fundamental principles for the intelligent design and application of DACs.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 665-676
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00050H

Catalytic fast pyrolysis of cellulose to oxygenates: roles of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts
Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) of biomass is an efficient approach that can overcome the structural recalcitrance of solid biomass (e.g., crystalline cellulose) to produce sugar monomers and their derivatives within seconds.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1238-1246
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00154K

Salt precipitation and water flooding intrinsic to electrocatalytic CO2 reduction in acidic membrane electrode assemblies: fundamentals and remedies
The fundamentals of salt precipitation and water flooding in membrane electrode assemblies for acidic electrocatalytic CO2 reduction are discussed and potential remedies via engineering electrodes, electrolytes, and membranes are proposed.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1228-1237
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00170B

Zeolite catalysts for non-oxidative ethane dehydrogenation to ethylene
The conversion of ethane to ethylene is crucial for deriving platform chemicals from non-petroleum feedstock.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 923-931
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00031E

Revisiting group 4–7 transition metals for heterogeneous ammonia synthesis
Group 4–7 metals are usually inactive for NH3 synthesis catalysis and have gained far less attention as compared to Fe and Ru. This mini-review discusses potential strategies to activate these metals, aiming to find novel catalysts for NH3 synthesis.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 780-788
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00301A

A minireview on electrochemical CO2 conversion based on carbonate/bicarbonate media
(Bi)Carbonate electrochemical conversion has emerged as a promising technology. Studies on mechanisms, along with latest progress in catalyst design and working electrode optimization. are summarized. Challenges and opportunities are also discussed.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 564-572
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00287J

Effects of the delocalization state on electrocatalytic CO2 reduction: a mini-review
The delocalization state of catalysts has been found to promote the stability and selectivity of CO2RR. This mini-review was discussed how the delocalization state of catalysts affects catalytic properties.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 556-563
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00227F

Unconventional intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals for energy-conversion electrocatalysis
The distinctive atomic distance and coordination environment endow the unconventional intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals with enhanced electrochemical performance.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 545-555
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00248A

Selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 over copper-based catalysts: recent advances and future prospects
This review presents the important progress of Cu-based catalysts for the NH3-SCR reaction. Special attention is given to elucidating the design of high-performance catalysts, as well as anti-inactivation measures in industrial applications.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 231-252
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00210A

A review of II–VI semiconductor nanoclusters for photocatalytic CO2 conversion: synthesis, characterization, and mechanisms
In this review, we briefly overview the syntheses, compositions, growth mechanisms, and performance improvement strategies of typical II–VI MSCs. Recent advances on the application of II–VI MSCs in photocatalytic CO2 reduction are introduced.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 687-694
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00106G

Electrochemical ozone production: from fundamental mechanisms to advanced applications
This work explores the mechanism of electrochemical ozone production (EOP), focusing on electrocatalyst development, standardized testing, EOP electrolyzer design and application. By addressing challenges and summarizing progress, it aims to promote practical EOP application in diverse fields.
EES Catal., 2025,3, 170-204
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00204K

Advancing electrochemical N2 reduction: interfacial electrolyte effects and operando computational approaches
This review highlights electrolyte engineering's pivotal role in enhancing eNRR efficiency for sustainable ammonia synthesis, focusing on strategies like cations and solvent tuning, with operando computational techniques aiding in overcoming challenges and optimizing performance.
EES Catal., 2025,3, 57-79
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00197D

Rare-metal single atom catalysts for large scale hydrogen production under actual operating conditions
This review summarizes the research progress made in recent years in the rational design of RMSACs for large-scale hydrogen production under actual conditions, including high current density, seawater electrolysis and long term operation.
EES Catal., 2025,3, 32-56
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00205A

Progress in in situ characterization of electrocatalysis
In situ electrochemical characterization techniques are introduced from the perspectives of multispectral resolution, space resolution and time resolution.
EES Catal., 2025,3, 10-31
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00168K

Green energy driven methane conversion under mild conditions
This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent efforts and understanding in methane conversion to valuable products, including oxygenates and hydrocarbons, by taking advantage of electrocatalysis and photocatalysis.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1210-1227
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00155A

Uniting activity design principles of anode catalysts for direct liquid fuel cells
This review provides a comprehensive overview of liquid fuel oxidation electrocatalysts, from fundamental principles to state-of-the-art materials in an effort to unify design principles for future materials.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1186-1209
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00100A

Revolutionizing ORR catalyst design through computational methodologies and materials informatics
The combination of density functional theory (DFT), machine learning, descriptor-based analysis, and computational hydrogen electrode is pivotal in discovering novel classed of active catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).
EES Catal., 2024,2, 1037-1058
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00104D

Advancements and opportunities in piezo-(photo)catalytic synthesis of value-added chemicals
Achieving value-added transformation of chemicals through green catalytic technology can simultaneously meet the market and environmental protection. This article reviews the recent advances in synthesizing value-added chemicals using piezo-(photo)catalytic technologies.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 884-910
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00313B

Advanced bifunctional catalyst design for rechargeable zinc–air batteries
This review provides an overview of advanced bifunctional catalysts that promotes both oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction in rechargeable zinc–air batteries, and analyses in detail their principles and future development.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 696-726
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00014E

A comparative overview of the electrochemical valorization and incorporation of CO2 in industrially relevant compounds
This review covers the recent work on the electrochemical valorization of CO2 towards key industrial compounds like carboxylic acids, urea and dimethyl carbonate by combining the eCO2RR intermediates with other active (in)organic reagents.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 753-779
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00005F

Cu-based catalysts for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia: fundamentals and recent advances
This review provides an overview of Cu-based catalysts for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia. It encompasses materials, reaction mechanisms, analysis methods and insights into the practical applications and economic prospects.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 727-752
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4EY00002A

Crystalline carbon nitrides for photocatalysis
This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances on crystalline carbon nitrides, including their preparation, optimization strategies, photocatalytic applications, as well as challenges and prospects.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 411-447
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00302G

Metal halide perovskites for CO2 photoreduction: recent advances and future perspectives
This review presents a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art developments in metal halide perovskite-based catalysts for photocatalytic reduction of CO2.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 448-474
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00187C

Nanostructured single-atom catalysts derived from natural building blocks
The emerging single-atom catalysts derived from biomass sources to date have been comprehensively summarized and discussed, including synthesis strategies, various biomass precursors, catalytic applications, existing challenges, and perspectives.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 475-506
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00265A

Pt single crystal surfaces in electrochemistry and electrocatalysis
In this review, recent advances in the use of platinum single-crystal surfaces in electrochemistry are addressed.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 399-410
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00260H

Recent progress in understanding the catalyst layer in anion exchange membrane electrolyzers – durability, utilization, and integration
This review discusses recent insights in catalyst layer design strategies for anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers, including electrode design, catalyst/ionomer integration, operational variables, in situ diagnostics, and cell durability.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 109-137
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00193H

Multidisciplinary approaches for enzyme biocatalysis in pharmaceuticals: protein engineering, computational biology, and nanoarchitectonics
This article reviews the integration of multidisciplinary approaches, including protein engineering, computational biology, and nanoarchitectonics, to advance pharmaceutical enzyme biocatalysis.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 14-48
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00239J

Research progress and perspectives on photocatalysts based on the lead-free double halide perovskite
Unlocking photocatalytic potential: this review explores the remarkable properties of lead-free double halide perovskites, their synthesis methods, and their role in photocatalytic H2 production and CO2 reduction.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 94-108
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00229B

Harnessing single-atom catalysts for CO2 electroreduction: a review of recent advances
We use an alchemical furnace as the main concept, with three pillars representing the general synthesis strategies for SACs. The four “elixirs” within the furnace chamber represent the diverse regulation strategies for SACs in CO2RR applications.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 71-93
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00150D

Single atom catalysts for water electrolysis: from catalyst-coated substrate to catalyst-coated membrane
This review summarizes the integration of single atom catalysts and catalyst-coated membrane architecture, exhibiting high utilization of SACs, facile ion transport, low interfacial resistance, and excellent scalability.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 49-70
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00165B

Gas-phase errors in computational electrocatalysis: a review
In this review we show how DFT gas-phase errors affect computational models of electrocatalytic reactions.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 157-179
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00126A

Structural engineering of catalysts for ammonia electrosynthesis from nitrate: recent advances and challenges
Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia offers a sustainable approach for nitrogenous waste upcycling. This review outlines recent advances in the design of electrocatalysts through cross-scale structural engineering.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 202-219
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00184A

Recent advances in tunable metal–support interactions for enhancing the photocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction
Photocatalytic nitrogen reduction using inexhaustible solar energy has been considered as a promising strategy for NH3 synthesis. The design of heterogeneous photocatalysts with tunable MSIs is of great significance.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 180-201
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00191A

Photocatalytic inactivation technologies for bioaerosols: advances and perspective
Photocatalytic bioaerosol control systems are urgently needed to inactivate airborne pathogenic microorganisms to prevent secondary contamination.
EES Catal., 2024,2, 138-156
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00179B

A chemist's guide to photoelectrode development for water splitting – the importance of molecular precursor design
This review outlines the underexplored molecular chemistry bottom-up approach of bespoke precursor design in photoelectrode development for photoelectrochemical water splitting.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 832-873
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00176H

Emerging on-chip microcells in electrocatalysis: functions of window and circuit
We discuss current achievements on two basic functions: window and circuit; the former focuses on the active sites, e.g., site identification and monitoring; the latter highlights circuit characteristics, e.g., electrical-field modulation, contact engineering, and in situ conductance.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 874-891
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00168G

Atomically imaging single atom catalysts and their behaviors by scanning tunneling microscopy
STM is promising for atomically precise imaging of single-atom catalysts, including their geometric and electronic structures and their behaviors.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 794-809
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00174A

Electroreforming injects a new life into solid waste
This review draws the similarities between electroreforming of biomass and plastic derivatives and highlights the pretreatment of raw solid waste, the innovation in catalyst design, and mechanism investigation of waste derivative conversion.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 892-920
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00147D

Metal-doped carbon nitride: an all-in-one photocatalyst
Graphitic carbon nitride (CN) has received significant attention for energy conversion. Metal doped CNs, as all-in-one photocatalysts, integrate light absorption, charge separation, and reactive site by incorporating atomic metal into CN framework.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 810-831
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00123G

Strategies for the design of ruthenium-based electrocatalysts toward acidic oxygen evolution reaction
This review provides a thorough discussion of fundamental mechanistic understanding, attempts at advanced Ru-based acidic OER catalysts, and future research opportunities.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 619-644
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00092C

Recent advances in electrocatalytic NOx reduction into ammonia
Electrochemical ammonia synthesis from gaseous NOx pollutant enables the replacement of conventional Haber-Bosch process. This review summarizes the efforts toward electrocatalyst development for selective NH3 production from NOx.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 645-664
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00090G

Microkinetic studies for mechanism interpretation in electrocatalytic CO and CO2 reduction: current and perspective
The accurate and reliable microkinetic modeling of electrochemical CO2 reduction requires a synergistic combination of experimental and computational approaches, alongside the use of operando spectroscopies as complementary techniques.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 590-618
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00079F

Single-site catalysts for CO2 electroreduction
The emerging single-site catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction have been comprehensively summarized and discussed, including their catalytic mechanisms, synthesis, optimization strategies, remaining challenges and perspectives.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 434-458
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00063J

Catalytic hydrogen storage in liquid hydrogen carriers
The storage and transportation of hydrogen remain significant hurdles for its commercialization and large-scale implementation. Liquid hydrogen carriers have emerged as promising solutions in hydrogen energy conversion systems.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 459-494
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00076A

Strategies for reducing the overpotential of one-dimensional Si nanostructured photoelectrodes for solar hydrogen production
Strategies to reduce the overpotential of 1D silicon nanostructured photoelectrodes for solar hydrogen generation: co-catalysts to improve the reaction kinetics, hetero- and homo-junctions to improve carrier collection and enhance photovoltage.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 392-412
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00073G

Electrocatalysts for value-added electrolysis coupled with hydrogen evolution
Recent progresses of value-added electrolysis that replace OER with value-added anodic reactions. Representation of the elements: hydrogen (white color), carbon (gray), oxygen (red), nitrogen (blue), and iodine (magenta).
EES Catal., 2023,1, 413-433
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00017F

Layered double hydroxides and their composites as high-performance photocatalysts for CO2 reduction
The panorama of the latest developments of LDH-based photocatalysts for CO2 reduction is exhibited.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 369-391
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00080J

A review of the recent progress on direct heterogeneous catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to gasoline-range hydrocarbons
This review presents important progress, main catalytic systems and critical scientific issues on direct heterogeneous catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to gasoline-range hydrocarbons.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 353-368
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00026E

Advances in organic semiconductors for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction
This article reviews organic photocatalyst hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), discussing the excitonic behaviour and improvement strategies. It also covers progress in organic photocatalysts, and assesses HER efficiency and stability.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 333-352
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00047H

Recent advances in perovskite oxide electrocatalysts for Li–O2 batteries
This review provides a timely and comprehensive understanding of recent advances towards perovskite-based catalysts for lithium–oxygen batteries.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 230-249
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00028A

Clarifying the local microenvironment of metal–organic frameworks and their derivatives for electrochemical CO2 reduction: advances and perspectives
Electrochemical CO2 reduction has been widely explored since 1970's, which could alleviate the current environmental and energy crisis caused by excessive CO2. Various strategies have been developed, including engineering and optimization of electrolytic cells and catalysts.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 179-229
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3EY00018D

Evolution of singlet oxygen in peroxymonosulfate activation: a review
Given that sulfate-radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) have attracted great attention in recent years, PMS activation has been reckoned to be an alternative method to the Fenton process in environmental remediation.
EES Catal., 2023,1, 103-116
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EY00107A
About this collection
In addition to high quality research papers, EES Catalysis features topical review articles. Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.