Issue 2, 2023

In situ characterisation for nanoscale structure–performance studies in electrocatalysis

Abstract

Recently, electrocatalytic reactions involving oxygen, nitrogen, water, and carbon dioxide have been developed to substitute conventional chemical processes, with the aim of producing clean energy, fuels and chemicals. A deepened understanding of catalyst structures, active sites and reaction mechanisms plays a critical role in improving the performance of these reactions. To this end, in situ/operando characterisations can be used to visualise the dynamic evolution of nanoscale materials and reaction intermediates under electrolysis conditions, thus enhancing our understanding of heterogeneous electrocatalytic reactions. In this review, we summarise the state-of-the-art in situ characterisation techniques used in electrocatalysis. We categorise them into three sections based on different working principles: microscopy, spectroscopy, and other characterisation techniques. The capacities and limits of the in situ characterisation techniques are discussed in each section to highlight the present-day horizons and guide further advances in the field, primarily aiming at the users of these techniques. Finally, we look at challenges and possible strategies for further development of in situ techniques.

Graphical abstract: In situ characterisation for nanoscale structure–performance studies in electrocatalysis

Article information

Article type
Minireview
Submitted
28 Sept. 2022
Accepted
23 Nov. 2022
First published
13 Dec. 2022

Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 146-157

In situ characterisation for nanoscale structure–performance studies in electrocatalysis

T. Xia, Y. Yang, Q. Song, M. Luo, M. Xue, K. (. Ostrikov, Y. Zhao and F. Li, Nanoscale Horiz., 2023, 8, 146 DOI: 10.1039/D2NH00447J

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