Exploring the synergy of magnetism and electrocatalysis: a comprehensive review on mechanisms, recent developments and future perspectives

Abstract

The development of sustainable techniques for electrocatalysis significantly depends on the creation of more efficient, cost-effective and reliable electrocatalysts that can overcome the sluggish kinetics of the process and thereby accelerate the overall energy conversion. External stimuli such as magnetic field have been known to have an impact on material properties, presenting a promising route to enhance electrocatalytic processes, including the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO₂RR). Recent studies have strongly supported the beneficial effects of magnetic field on the fabrication of electrocatalysts and electrocatalytic reactions. However, there is still noticeable lack of interest and enthusiasm among the research community in this interdisciplinary field. Thus, this review aims to emphasize the importance of the combined effect of magnetic field and energy production. Initially, we present a thorough explanation of the fundamental mechanisms of the aforementioned electrocatalytic processes and then vividly elaborate the potential mechanisms underlying magnetic field-enhanced electrocatalysis. Finally, we highlight the recent advancements in this field, followed by the associated comprehensive current challenges and future perspectives.