Transition metal chalcogenide–based alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalysts: Activity, structural reconstruction, and stability

초록

Water electrolysis is a sustainable approach for developing an H2 economy. Among the various technologies, anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE) is emerging as a promising method because it offers a cost-effective route for hydrogen production through the potential use of non-noble metal electrocatalysts. Transition metal chalcogenide (TMC)-based electrocatalysts with structural diversity, high electrical conductivity, and natural abundance have been extensively studied for AEMWE applications. To date, extensive efforts have been devoted to controlling crystalline phases, elemental compositions, and morphologies to understand their relationship with electrocatalytic properties. Although many structural-electrocatalytic properties have been established, recent studies have suggested that these correlations may deviate owing to structural reconstructions during electrolysis. In this review, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and structure of TMC-based materials are discussed, and the relationship between the HER and TMC-based electrocatalysts is detailed. Finally, recent progress in structural reconstruction, which can induce the loss of the initial catalytic structure, is covered.