Jahn–Teller distortion in the oxygen evolution reaction: from fundamental insights to catalyst design

Abstract

The overall efficiency of water electrolysis is strongly influenced by the high energy requirement of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Therefore, tackling the high energy consumption associated with the OER is crucial in order to develop an energy-efficient and practical water electrolyzer. Geometric distortions are one of many factors that tune the catalytic activity of transition metal-based electrocatalysts, among which Jahn–Teller distortion is very significant. This structural change occurs due to electronic degeneracy in certain metal centers. In metal ions such as Mn³⁺, Co³⁺, Ni³⁺, and Cu²⁺, one can observe that asymmetric coordination of the ligands surrounding metal ions leads to distortion, thus modifying both the electronic characteristics and catalytic activity of the active site. Recently, research has highlighted the role of Jahn–Teller distortion in altering the performance of transition metal-based electrocatalysts for the OER by modifying the electronic features. This review focuses on recent developments in electrocatalysts where Jahn–Teller distortion plays a significant role and correlates distortion to oxygen evolution activity. In addition, both experimental and theoretical perspectives are discussed for a better understanding of this phenomenon. The electronic underpinning of distortion in transition metal-based catalysts has been highlighted, and these usefully introduce a deeper understanding of rational catalyst design. In short, this review provides a thorough overview of Jahn–Teller distortion in the OER with the aim of assisting in the development and modification of catalysts for OER technologies.