Two-dimensional materials for electrocatalysis and energy storage applications

Abstract

Since the discovery and widespread application of graphene, a plethora of various 2D materials continue to emerge and attract a lot of interest in materials science. These materials comprise a vast family with several different compositions and properties. In this review, 2D materials beyond graphene used in electrocatalysis and energy storage are discussed in detail. In particular, the range of properties related to the electronic and structural features of such materials are explored, and relevant recent results are analyzed. Synergistic phenomena and mechanisms leading to improved electrochemical performance are described. A brief overview of the unique traits of the category of materials classified as 2D materials is first given, with a focus on the recent design and application breakthroughs in the fields of energy storage and electrocatalysis. Once the current level of development on the use of such materials is understood, future challenges and prospects are separately outlined to facilitate effective material design and further promote the exploitation potential of the materials under discussion in the domains of energy conversion and storage.