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Pyrolytic single Fe atom‐nitrogen‐carbon materials (Fe−N−C) and their derivatives are excellent catalysts for electrochemical oxygen reduction reactions. However, they exhibit poor oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity due to non‐optimal Fe−O* bonding. This limitation is overcome via electronic structure modulation (i. e., tuning the heteroatom type, concentration, and location within Fe's n≥1 coordination sphere). However, the methods used are complex and energy‐intensive (i. e., 1000 to 1200 °C) raising concerns about reproducibility and cost. This study introduces a method for synthesizing nonpyrolytic Fe−N−C/Fe2O3 composites with similar electronic structure modulation as pyrolytic Fe−N−C and OER activity akin to commercial RuO2. The methodology involves doping low‐melting hydrated Fe‐salts in electrospun polyacrylonitrile nanofiber to catalyze its transformation into conjugated pyridinic‐N‐rich graphite‐like sheets (i. e., N−C) at 300 °C. N−C chelate effectively with oxygen‐vacant (Ov)‐rich Fe atoms derived from Fe2O3 NPs resulting in Fe−N−C/Fe2O3 heterostructures. The Fe2O3 coupling effectively tunes Fe−N−C's electronic structure via Ov modulation. Consequently, the Fermi and d‐orbital energy levels are optimized leading to partial filling of the antibonding states, optimal Fe−O* bonding, high electrochemically active surface area, and OER activity. Because Fe−N−C /Fe2O3 is synthesized at 300 °C using well‐established techniques, its complexity and cost are favorable compared to pyrolytic Fe−N−C materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Efficient health indicators (HI) and prediction methods are crucial for assessing the remaining useful life (RUL) of fuel cells. However, obtaining HI under dynamic conditions with frequently changing loads is highly challenging. Therefore, this study proposes a prediction framework based on dynamic conditions. A method combining complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise, power spectral density, and energy analysis (CPE) is proposed to extract HI under dynamic conditions from the perspectives of frequency and energy. Furthermore, the time convolution network with adaptive Bayesian optimization (AB-TCN) is introduced to address parameter optimization and prediction challenges. Effective feature parameters of the data are identified using random forest and used to train the AB-TCN. Results show that the extracted HI can effectively determine the end-of-life. The AB-TCN achieves accurate RUL estimation with a prediction error of only 6.825% and shows strong adaptability to various prediction tasks.

Summary: Synergetic management of waste activated sludge, heavy metals (HMs) and CO2 for their valorization and cyclic utilization is rarely reported. Herein, we employed sludge-derived extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and HMs in wastewater to fabricate a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) for electrochemical CO2 reduction. This approach atomically dispersed Ni at each nanofiber of the GDE. Abundant N element in the EPS proved to play a key role in the formation of Nx-Ni (mixture of N3-Ni and N4-Ni) sites for highly efficient CO2 to CO conversion. The atomical Ni3+ shows high catalytic activity. Direct gaseous CO2 reduction in a membrane electrode assembly generated a current density up to 50 mA·cm−2 with CO:H2 ratio of ∼100 and ∼75% FECO under 2.69 cell voltage. This strategy takes advantage of all waste streams generated on site and consolidates traditionally separated treatment processes to save costs, produces value-added products and generates carbon benefits during wastewater treatment.

This work introduces a rapid, cost-effective, and energy-efficient synthesis method for a copper-based metal-organic framework (CuTz-1) catalyst to overcome challenges in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline media. Among the electrodes, the CuTz-1/nickel foam (NF) demonstrates superior performance with low overpotentials (142 mV and 82 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and 20 mA cm−2), small Tafel slopes (37.1 mV dec−1 and 51.1 mV dec−1) and high turnover frequency (TOF) value (76 × 10−3 s−1 and 0.277 s−1) for OER and HER, respectively. Remarkably, CuTz-1/NF maintains stable electrocatalytic activity over 20 h. The presented gram-scale synthesis approach offers practical applications in water splitting, particularly where manufacturing processes are a concern. • Nanorods of copper MOF can be prepared on a gram-scale. • Nickel foam was found to be the best substrate to immobilize copper MOF. • The copper MOF catalyst exhibits low overpotential, Tafel slope, and high stability for OER and HER in alkaline media. • The copper MOF/nickel foam is a promising candidate to replace the noble metal-based electrocatalysts for water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D materials, such as graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides, black phosphorus, layered double hydroxides, and MXene, have exhibited broad application prospects in electrochemical energy conversion due to their unique structures and electronic properties. Recently, the engineering of heterostructures based on 2D materials, including 2D/0D, 2D/1D, 2D/2D, and 2D/3D, has shown the potential to produce synergistic and heterointerface effects, overcoming the inherent restrictions of 2D materials and thus elevating the electrocatalytic performance to the next level. In this review, recent studies are systematically summarized on heterostructures based on 2D materials for advanced electrochemical energy conversion, including water splitting, CO2 reduction reaction, N2 reduction reaction, etc. Additionally, preparation methods are introduced and novel properties of various types of heterostructures based on 2D materials are discussed. Furthermore, the reaction principles and intrinsic mechanisms behind the excellent performance of these heterostructures are evaluated. Finally, insights are provided into the challenges and perspectives regarding the future engineering of heterostructures based on 2D materials for further advancements in electrochemical energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical industry needs to significantly decrease carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in order to meet the 2050 carbon neutrality goal. Utilization of CO2 as a chemical feedstock for bulk products is a promising way to mitigate industrial emissions; however, CO2-based manufacturing is currently not competitive with the established petrochemical methods and its deployment requires creation of a new value chain. Here, we show that an alternative approach, using CO2 conversion as an add-on to existing manufactures, can disrupt the global carbon cycle while minimally perturbing the operation of chemical plants. Proposed closed-loop on-site CO2 recycling processes are economically viable in the current market and have the potential for rapid introduction in the industries. Retrofit-based CO2 recycling can reduce annually between 4 and 10 Gt CO2 by 2050 and contribute to achieving up to 50% of the industrial carbon neutrality goal.

Summary: Proton conductors are typically developed by doping to introduce structural defects such as oxygen vacancies to facilitate ionic transport through structural bulk conduction mechanism. In this study, we present a novel electrochemical proton injection method via an in situ fuel cell process, demonstrating proton conduction in europium oxide (Eu2O3) through a surficial conduction mechanism for the first time. By tuning Eu2O3 into a protonated form, H-Eu2O3, we achieved an exceptionally high proton conductivity of 0.16 S cm−1. Distribution of relaxation time (DRT) analysis was employed to investigate the proton transport behavior and reveal the significant contribution of surface proton transport to the overall conductivity of Eu2O3. Remarkably, H-Eu2O3 exhibited a low activation energy for ionic transport, comparable to the best ceramic electrolytes available. The proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) mechanism describes this novel surficial proton conduction mechanism. These findings provide new possibilities for developing advanced proton conductors with improved performance.

Summary: Lithium trapping, which is associated with the immobilization of lithium and is one of key factors contributing to structural degradation of lithium-ion batteries during electrochemical cycling, can exacerbate mechanical stress and ultimately cause the capacity loss and battery failure. Currently, there are few studies focusing on how lithium trapping contributes to mechanical stress during electrochemical cycling. This study incorporates the contribution of lithium trapping in the analysis of mechanical stress and mass transport in the framework of finite deformation. Two de-lithiation scenarios are analyzed: one with a constant concentration of trapped lithium and the other with inhomogeneous distribution of trapped lithium. The results show that the constant concentration of trapped lithium increases chemical stress and the inhomogeneous distribution of trapped lithium causes the decrease of chemical stress. The findings can serve as a basis for developing effective strategies to mitigate the lithium trapping and improve the battery performance.

Abstract 2D materials, such as graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides, black phosphorus, layered double hydroxides, and MXene, have exhibited broad application prospects in electrochemical energy conversion due to their unique structures and electronic properties. Recently, the engineering of heterostructures based on 2D materials, including 2D/0D, 2D/1D, 2D/2D, and 2D/3D, has shown the potential to produce synergistic and heterointerface effects, overcoming the inherent restrictions of 2D materials and thus elevating the electrocatalytic performance to the next level. In this review, recent studies are systematically summarized on heterostructures based on 2D materials for advanced electrochemical energy conversion, including water splitting, CO2 reduction reaction, N2 reduction reaction, etc. Additionally, preparation methods are introduced and novel properties of various types of heterostructures based on 2D materials are discussed. Furthermore, the reaction principles and intrinsic mechanisms behind the excellent performance of these heterostructures are evaluated. Finally, insights are provided into the challenges and perspectives regarding the future engineering of heterostructures based on 2D materials for further advancements in electrochemical energy conversion.

Understanding the relationships between porous transport layer (PTL) morphology and oxygen removal is essential to improve the polymer electrolyte water electrolyzer (PEWE) performance. Operando X-ray computed tomography and machine learning were performed on a model electrolyzer at different water flow rates and current densities to determine how these operating conditions alter oxygen transport in the PTLs. We report a direct observation of oxygen taking preferential pathways through the PTL, regardless of the water flow rate or current density (1-4 A/cm2). Oxygen distribution in the PTL had a periodic behavior with period of 400 μm. A computational fluid dynamics model was used to predict oxygen distribution in the PTL showing periodic oxygen front. Observed oxygen distribution is due to low in-plane PTL tortuosity and high porosity enabling merging of oxygen bubbles in the middle of the PTL and also due to aerophobicity of the layer.

Atomically dispersed metal sites (ADMSs) play key roles in electrochemical energy conversion. The covalent organic frameworks (COFs) enable the precise control of the chemical compositions and structures at the molecular level, making them ideal substrates for supporting ADMSs. In this review, we systematically summarize the recent progress on the design and synthesis of ADMSs in COFs, including embedding molecular catalysts into COFs, immobilizing ADMSs on heteroatom-containing COFs, and preparing COF-derived carbon materials through pyrolysis. The electrocatalytic performance of the resulting catalysts is presented for various electrochemical reactions, involving oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). The modulation strategies of AMDSs in COFs for enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability are highlighted, together with a perspective of the current challenges and the future opportunities in this field.

Summary: The atomically precise metal electrocatalysts for driving CO2 reduction reactions are eagerly pursued as they are model systems to identify the active sites, understand the reaction mechanism, and further guide the exploration of efficient and practical metal nanocatalysts. Reported herein is a nanocluster-based electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction, which features a clear geometric and electronic structure, and more importantly excellent performance. The nanocatalysts with the molecular formula of [Ag17Cu10(dppm)4(PhC≡C)20H4]3+ have been obtained in a facile way. The unique metal framework of the cluster, with silver, copper, and hydride included, and dedicated surface structure, with strong (dppm) and labile (alkynyl) ligands coordinated, endow the cluster with excellent performance in electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction to CO. With the atomically precise electrocatalysts in hand, not only high reactivity and selectivity (Faradaic efficiency for CO up to 91.6%) but also long-term stability (24 h), are achieved.

Summary: Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions carry pernicious consequences on air quality and human health, prompting an upsurge of interest in eliminating them from the atmosphere. The electrochemical NOx reduction reaction (NOxRR) is among the promising techniques for NOx removal and potential conversion into valuable chemical feedstock with high conversion efficiency while benefiting energy conservation. However, developing efficient and stable electrocatalysts for NOxRR remains an arduous challenge. This review provides a comprehensive survey of recent advancements in NOxRR, encompassing the underlying fundamentals of the reaction mechanism and rationale behind the design of electrocatalysts using computational modeling and experimental efforts. The potential utilization of NOxRR in a Zn-NOx battery is also explored as a proof of concept for concurrent NOx abatement, NH3 synthesis, and decarbonizing energy generation. Despite significant strides in this domain, several hurdles still need to be resolved in developing efficient and long-lasting electrocatalysts for NOx reduction. These possible means are necessary to augment the catalytic activity and electrocatalyst selectivity and surmount the challenges of catalyst deactivation and corrosion. Furthermore, sustained research and development of NOxRR could offer a promising solution to the urgent issue of NOx pollution, culminating in a cleaner and healthier environment.

Summary: Innovation of catalyst structure is extremely important to develop the high-performance electrocatalysts for oxygen-reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, nitrogen-doped carbon semi-tube (N-CST) is used as a functional support for stabilizing the microwave-reduced Pt nanoparticles with an average size of ∼2.8 nm to synthesize the semi-tubular Pt/N-CST catalyst. The contribution of interfacial Pt-N bond between N-CST support and Pt nanoparticles with electrons transfer from N-CST support to Pt nanoparticles is found by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy. This bridged Pt-N coordination can simultaneously help ORR electrocatalysis and promote electrochemical stability. As a result, the innovative Pt/N-CST catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic performance, realizing ORR activity and electrochemical stability superior to the commercial Pt/C catalyst. Furthermore, density functional theoretical (DFT) calculations suggest that the interfacial Pt-N-C site with unique affinity of O∗ + OH∗ can provide new active routes for the enhanced electrocatalytic ORR capacity.

Rational design and engineering of high‐performance, low‐cost electrocatalysts represents a critical first step in the development of sustainable energy technologies. While single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as viable candidates, recent research has shown that the structure and activity can be further manipulated and enhanced by the incorporation of a second metal center in the close proximity, forming a binuclear configuration. Such dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) are recognized as feasible choices to break the limitations of SACs due to the synergetic effects between the bimetallic atoms and their special structures. Herein, the recent advances of DAC electrocatalysis for a range of important reactions, focusing on their synthesis, characterization, and performance, are summarized. The review is concluded with a perspective highlighting the challenges and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the depletion of fossil fuels and environmental pollution, energy storage and conversion have become the focus of current research. Water splitting and fuel cell technologies have made outstanding contributions to energy conversion. However, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have slow kinetics, which limit the capacity of fuel cells. It is of great significance to develop catalysts for the OER and ORR and continuously improve their catalytic performance. Many studies have shown that intrinsic defects, especially vacancies (anion and cation vacancies), can effectively improve the efficiency of electrochemical energy storage and conversion. The introduction of intrinsic defects can generally expose more active sites, enhance conductivity, adjust the electronic state, and promote ion diffusion, thereby enhancing the catalytic performance. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest developments regarding the effects of intrinsic defects on the performance of non-noble metal electrocatalysts. According to the type of intrinsic defect, this article reviews in detail the regulation mechanism, preparation methods and advanced characterization techniques of intrinsic defects in different materials (oxides, non-oxides, etc.). Then, the current difficulties and future development of intrinsic defect regulation are analyzed and discussed thoroughly. Finally, the prospect of intrinsic defects in the field of electrochemical energy storage is further explored.

The combination of near edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy with nanoscale X‐ray imaging is a powerful analytical tool for many applications in energy technologies, catalysis, which are critical to combat climate change, as well as microelectronics and life science. Materials from these scientific areas often contain key elements, such as Si, P, S, Y, Zr, Nb, and Mo as well as lanthanides, whose X‐ray absorption edges lie in the so‐called tender photon energy range 1.5–5.0 keV. Neither conventional grazing incidence grating nor crystal monochromators have high transmission in this energy range, thereby yielding the tender photon energy gap. To close this gap, a monochromator setup based on a multilayer coated blazed plane grating and plane mirror is devised. The measurements show that this novel concept improves the photon flux in the tender X‐ray regime by two‐orders‐of‐magnitude enabling previously unattainable laboratory and synchrotron‐based studies. This setup is applied to perform nanoscale spectromicroscopy studies. The high photon flux provides sufficient sensitivity to obtain the electronic structure of Mo in platinum‐free MoNi4 nanoparticles for electrochemical energy conversion. Additionally, it is shown that the chemical bonding of nano‐structures in integrated circuits can be distinguished by the electronic configuration at the Si‐K edge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Ammonia is a promising carbon-free hydrogen carrier. Owing to their nickel-rich anodes and high operating temperatures, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) can directly utilize NH3 fuel—direct-ammonia SOFCs (DA-SOFCs). Lowering the operating temperature can diversify application areas of DA-SOFCs. We tested direct-ammonia operation using two types of thin-film SOFCs (TF-SOFCs) under 500 to 650°C and compared these with a conventional SOFC. The TF-SOFC with a nickel oxide gadolinium-doped ceria anode achieved a peak power density of 1330 mW cm−2 (NH3 fuel under 650°C), which is the best performance reported to date. However, the performance difference between the NH3 and H2 operations was significant. Electrochemical impedance analyses, ammonia conversion quantification, and two-dimensional multi-physics modeling suggested that reduced ammonia conversion at low temperatures is the main cause of the performance gap. A comparative study with previously reported DA-SOFCs clarified that incorporating a more active ammonia decomposition catalyst will further improve low-temperature DA-SOFCs.

Self-discharge1 of batteries is a natural, but nevertheless quite unwelcome phenomenon. Because it is driven in its various forms by the same thermodynamic forces as the discharge during intended operation of the device it can only be slowed down by impeding the reaction kinetics of its various steps, i.e. their respective rates of reaction. This approach should be based on a deeper understanding of the various modes and mechanisms of self-discharge, which in turn depends on the battery chemistry, its mode of operation and environmental conditions. Typical examples from representative battery chemistries are presented and observed effects are reviewed. Similarities between battery chemistries and causes of self-discharge are identified; concepts and ideas obtained this way are outlined. As an outcome of a better understanding of both common and system-independent causes and mechanisms of self-discharge as well as chemistry-specific processes approaches to reduce self-discharge are presented. Achieved progress is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: CO2 capture and its electrochemical conversion have historically developed as two distinct technologies and scientific fields. Each process possesses unique energy penalties, inefficiencies, and costs, which accrue along the mitigation pathway from emissions to product. Recently, the concept of integrating CO2 capture and electrochemical conversion, or “electrochemically reactive capture,” has aroused attention following early laboratory-scale proofs-of-concept. However, the integration of the two processes introduces new complexities at a basic science and engineering level, many of which have yet to be clearly defined. The key parameters to guide reaction, electrolyte, electrode, and system design would, therefore, benefit from delineation. To begin this effort, this perspective outlines several crucial physicochemical and electrochemical considerations, where we argue that the absence of basic knowledge leaves the field of designing metaphorically in the dark. The considerations make clear that there is ample need for fundamental science that can better inform design, following which the potential impacts of integration can be rigorously assessed beyond what is possible at present.

Abstract The development of electrocatalysts for energy conversion systems is essential for alleviating environmental problems and producing useful energy sources as alternatives to fossil fuels. Improving the catalytic performance and stability of electrocatalysts is a major challenge in the development of energy conversion systems. Moreover, understanding their electrode structure is important for enhancing the energy efficiency. Recently, binder‐free self‐supported electrodes have been investigated because the seamless contact between the electrocatalyst and substrate minimizes the contact resistance as well as facilitates fast charge transfer at the catalyst/substrate interface and high catalyst utilization. Electrodeposition is an effective and facile method for fabricating self‐supported electrodes in aqueous solutions under mild conditions. Facile fabrication without a polymer binder and controlability of the compositional and morphological properties of the electrocatalyst make electrodeposition methods suitable for enhancing the performance of energy conversion systems. Herein, we summarize recent research on self‐supported electrodes fabricated by electrodeposition for energy conversion reactions, particularly focusing on cathodic reactions of electrolyzer system such as hydrogen evolution, electrochemical CO2 reduction, and electrochemical N2 reduction reactions. The deposition conditions, morphological and compositional properties, and catalytic performance of the electrocatalyst are reviewed. Finally, the prospective directions of electrocatalyst development for energy conversion systems are discussed.

Summary: In recent years, single-atom catalysts (SACs) with unique electronic structure and coordination environment have attracted much attention due to its maximum atomic efficiency in the catalysis fields. However, it is still a great challenge to rationally regulate the coordination environments of SACs and improve the loading of metal atoms for SACs during catalysis progress. Generally, carbon-based materials with excellent electrical conductivity and large specific surface area are widely used as catalyst supports to stabilize metal atoms. Meanwhile, carbon-based material-supported SACs have also been extensively studied and applied in various energy conversion reactions, such as hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), and nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). Herein, rational synthesis methods and advanced characterization techniques were introduced and summarized in this review. Then, the theoretical design strategies and construction methods for carbon-based material-supported SACs in electrocatalysis applications were fully discussed, which are of great significance for guiding the coordination regulation and improving the loading of SACs. In the end, the challenges and future perspectives of SACs were proposed, which could largely contribute to the development of single atom catalysts at the turning point.

Summary: Electroactive biofilms (EABs) play an important role in bioelectrochemical systems due to their abilities to generate electrons and perform extracellular electron transfer (EET). Here, we investigated the effects of quorum sensing (QS) signals on power output, chlortetracycline degradation, and structure of EABs in MFCs treating antibiotic wastewater. The voltage output of MFCs with C4-HSL and PQS increased by 21.57% and 13.73%, respectively, compared with that without QS signals. The chlortetracycline degradation efficiency in closed-circuit MFCs with C4-HSL and PQS increased by 56.53% and 50.04%, respectively, which resulted from the thicker biofilms, higher biomass, and stronger activities. Additionally, QS signals induced the heterogeneous distribution of EPS for a balance between self-protection and EET under environmental pressure. Geobacter prevailed by the addition of QS signals to resist high chlortetracycline concentration. Our results provided a broader understanding on regulating EABs within electrode interface to improve their performance for environmental remediation and clean energy development.

Summary: The desire toward decarbonization and renewable energy has sparked research interests in reactive CO2 separations, such as direct air capture that utilize electricity as opposed to conventional thermal and pressure swing processes, which are energy-intensive, cost-prohibitive, and fossil-fuel dependent. Although the electrochemical approaches in CO2 capture that support negative emissions technologies are promising in terms of modularity, smaller footprint, mild reaction conditions, and possibility to integrate into conversion processes, their practice depends on the wider availability of renewable electricity. This perspective discusses key advances made in electrolytes and electrodes with redox-active moieties that reversibly capture CO2 or facilitate its transport from a CO2-lean side to a CO2-rich side within the last decade. In support of the discovery of new heterogeneous electrode materials and electrolytes with redox carriers, the role of computational chemistry is also discussed.

Summary: Sulfonated polyphenylene (SPP)-based ionomers have been developed for electrochemical applications in recent years due to their inherent thermal and chemical stability. However, the difficult synthesis, limited solubility, and rigid backbone obstructs their progress. Herein, a new monomer, 3,3″-dichloro-2′,3′,5′,6′-tetrafluoro-1,1':4′,1″-terphenyl (TP-f) with high polymerization reactivity was designed and polymerized with sulfonated phenylene monomer to prepare SPP-based ionomers (SPP-TP-f) with high ion exchange capacity up to 4.5 mequiv g−1. The resulting flexible membranes were more proton conductive than Nafion (state-of-the-art proton exchange membrane) even at 120°C and 20% RH. Unlike typical SPP ionomers, SPP-TP-f 5.1 was soluble in ethanol and thus, could be reinforced with double expanded polytetrafluorethylene thin layers to obtain SPP-TP-f 5.1/DPTFE membrane. SPP-TP-f 5.1/DPTFE showed superior fuel cell performance to that of Nafion, in particular, at low humidity (30% RH, > 100°C) and reasonable durability under the severe accelerated conditions combining OCV hold and humidity cycling tests.

Summary: Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) represents a sustainable platform that converts waste into resources, using microorganisms within an electrochemical cell. Traditionally, MES refers to the oxidation/reduction of a reactant at the electrode surface with externally applied potential bias. However, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) generate electrons that can drive electrochemical reactions at otherwise unbiased electrodes. Electrosynthesis in MFCs is driven by microbial oxidation of organic matter releasing electrons that force the migration of cationic species to the cathode. Here, we explore how electrosynthesis can coexist within electricity-producing MFCs thanks to electro-separation of cations, electroosmotic drag, and oxygen reduction within appropriately designed systems. More importantly, we report on a novel method of in situ modulation for electrosynthesis, through additional “pin” electrodes. Several MFC electrosynthesis modulating methods that adjust the electrode potential of each half-cell through the pin electrodes are presented. The innovative concept of electrosynthesis within the electricity producing MFCs provides a multidisciplinary platform converting waste-to-resources in a self-sustainable way.

Summary: Silicon (Si) has been widely investigated as a feasible material for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. Compared to thick wafer-based Si, thin Si (

Intrinsically conducting polymers and their copolymers and composites with redox-active organic molecules prepared by chemical as well as electrochemical polymerization may yield active masses without additional binder and conducting agents for secondary battery electrodes possibly utilizing the advantageous properties of both constituents are discussed. Beyond these possibilities these polymers have found many applications and functions for various further purposes in secondary batteries, as binders, as protective coatings limiting active material corrosion, unwanted dissolution of active mass ingredients or migration of electrode reaction participants. Selected highlights from this rapidly developing and very diverse field are presented. Possible developments and future directions are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pt‐group metal (PGM) electrocatalysts with unique electronic structures and irreplaceable comprehensive properties play crucial roles in electrocatalysis. Anion engineering can create a series of PGM compounds (such as RuP2, IrP2, PtP2, RuB2, Ru2B3, RuS2, etc.) that provide a promising prospect for improving the electrocatalytic performance and use of Pt‐group noble metals. This review seeks the electrochemical activity origin of anion‐modulated PGM compounds, and systematically analyzes and summarizes their synthetic strategies and energy‐relevant applications in electrocatalysis. Orientation towards the sustainable development of nonfossil resources has stimulated a blossoming interest in the design of advanced electrocatalysts for clean energy conversion. The anion‐modulated strategy for Pt‐group metals (PGMs) by means of anion engineering possesses high flexibility to regulate the electronic structure, providing a promising prospect for constructing electrocatalysts with superior activity and stability to satisfy a future green electrochemical energy conversion system. Based on the previous work of our group and others, this review summarizes the up‐to‐date progress on anion‐modulated PGM compounds (such as RuP2, IrP2, PtP2, RuB2, Ru2B3, RuS2, etc.) in energy‐related electrocatalysis from the origin of their activity and synthetic strategies to electrochemical applications including hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), N2 reduction reaction (NRR), and CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). At the end, the key problems, countermeasures and future development orientations of anion‐modulated PGM compounds toward electrocatalytic applications are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The oxidation of secondary alcohols is favored on PtRu compared to Pt. • Ru plays a different role in the oxidation of the secondary and primary alcohols. • The presence of Ru enables the adsorption of an O-bound intermediate. • Secondary alcohols are oxidized through a different pathway on PtRu compared to Pt. • The bifunctional mechanism is limited to the oxidation of primary alcohols. This study shows remarkably different features between the oxidation of secondary and primary C 3 -C 5 alcohols. The oxidation of primary alcohols is controlled by the oxidative removal of blocking adsorbates, such as CO, formed after the dissociative adsorption of alcohol molecules. Conversely, secondary alcohols do not undergo dissociative adsorption and therefore their oxidation is purely controlled by the energetics of the elementary reaction steps. In this respect, a different role of ruthenium is revealed for the electrooxidation of primary and secondary alcohols on bimetallic platinum-ruthenium catalysts. Ruthenium enhances the oxidation of primary alcohols via the established bifunctional mechanism, in which the adsorption of (hydr)oxide species that are necessary to remove the blocking adsorbates is favored. In contrast, the oxidation of secondary alcohols is enhanced by the Ru-assisted stabilization of an O-bound intermediate that is involved in the potential-limiting step. This alternative pathway enables the oxidation of secondary alcohols close to the equilibrium potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is hindered by poor catalytic activity, sluggish kinetics, and complex catalytic mechanism of electrocatalysts. Herein, we develop a novel perovskite K-Ni-Zn-F catalyst (KNZF-31) towards efficient UOR, showing a low potential of 1.348 V vs. RHE at 10 mA cm−2. The designed direct urea-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (DUHPFC) provides superior open circuit voltages and power densities (0.99 V, 11.41 mW cm−2). Ex situ technology verifies amorphous electro-active/inert NiOOH/ZnO derived from surface conversion of crystalline KNZF-31, which synergistically drive the UOR. Theoretical calculation indicates that Zn-doping in KNiF 3 promotes the OH− adsorption and charge transfer of Ni2+-site and formation of surface NiOOH electroactive species, which optimizes subsequent urea adsorption and charge transfer of Ni3+-site and desorption of CO 2 on NiOOH/ZnO hetero-interface. This study reveals catalytic mechanism and activity origin of KNZF-31 catalyst towards UOR, offering a bright prospect for energy-sustainable developments. [Display omitted] Developing Ni-Zn ABF3 (KNZF-31) electrocatalyst for efficient UOR. KNZF-31 shows a surface conversion mechanism in moderate alkaline media. Amorphous NiOOH/ZnO derived from KNZF-31 synergistically drive UOR. B-site Zn-doping in KNZF-31 promotes the activity and kinetics for UOR. DUHPFC by KNZF-31 catalysts provides superior performance, [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hydrogen, a renewable and outstanding energy carrier with zero carbon dioxide emission, is regarded as the best alternative to fossil fuels. The most preferred route to large-scale production of hydrogen is by water electrolysis from the intermittent sources (e.g., wind, solar, hydro, and tidal energy). However, the efficiency of water electrolysis is very much dependent on the activity of electrocatalysts. Thus, designing high-effective, stable, and cheap materials for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) could have a substantial impact on renewable energy technologies. Recently, single-atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as a new frontier in catalysis science, because SACs have maximum atom-utilization efficiency and excellent catalytic reaction activity. Various synthesis methods and analytical techniques have been adopted to prepare and characterize these SACs. In this review, we discuss recent progress on SACs synthesis, characterization methods, and their catalytic applications. Particularly, we highlight their unique electrochemical characteristics toward HER. Finally, the current key challenges in SACs for HER are pointed out and some potential directions are proposed as well.

Abstract Controllable synthesis of highly active micro/nanostructured metal electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a particularly significant and challenging target. Herein, we report a 3D porous sponge-like Ni material, prepared by a facile hydrothermal method and consisting of cross-linked micro/nanofibers, as an integrated binder-free OER electrocatalyst. To further enhance the electrocatalytic performance, an N-doping strategy is applied to obtain N-doped sponge Ni (N-SN) for the first time, via NH3 annealing. Due to the combination of the unique conductive sponge structure and N doping, the as-obtained N-SN material shows improved conductivity and a higher number of active sites, resulting in enhanced OER performance and excellent stability. Remarkably, N-SN exhibits a low overpotential of 365 mV at 100 mA cm−2 and an extremely small Tafel slope of 33 mV dec−1, as well as superior long-term stability, outperforming unmodified sponge Ni. Importantly, the combination of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and near-edge X-ray adsorption fine structure analyses shows that γ-NiOOH is the surface-active phase for OER. Therefore, the combination of conductive sponge structure and N-doping modification opens a new avenue for fabricating new types of high-performance electrodes with application in electrochemical energy conversion devices.

Summary: The chemical industry needs to significantly decrease carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in order to meet the 2050 carbon neutrality goal. Utilization of CO2 as a chemical feedstock for bulk products is a promising way to mitigate industrial emissions; however, CO2-based manufacturing is currently not competitive with the established petrochemical methods and its deployment requires creation of a new value chain. Here, we show that an alternative approach, using CO2 conversion as an add-on to existing manufactures, can disrupt the global carbon cycle while minimally perturbing the operation of chemical plants. Proposed closed-loop on-site CO2 recycling processes are economically viable in the current market and have the potential for rapid introduction in the industries. Retrofit-based CO2 recycling can reduce annually between 4 and 10 Gt CO2 by 2050 and contribute to achieving up to 50% of the industrial carbon neutrality goal.

Summary: Reaching the climate targets set in the Paris Agreement on climate change requires decarbonizing all parts of the global economy. The electrification of industry processes—and more specifically, electrosynthesis (ES)—is an important decarbonization mechanism. To tap into this mechanism's potential and accelerate the decarbonization of these processes, I argue that public policy needs to perform two tasks. First, energy policy needs to enable the provision of CO2 emissions-free baseload electricity. Second, innovation policy needs to accelerate cost reductions for ES. Here, I discuss why this is the case, what the challenges are, how policy makers can address them, and how political ambition can be increased.

The development of high-performance electrocatalysts for energy conversion reactions is crucial for advancing global energy sustainability. The design of catalysts based on their electronic properties (e.g., work function) has gained significant attention recently. Although numerous reviews on electrocatalysis have been provided, no such reports on work function-guided electrocatalyst design are available. Herein, a comprehensive summary of the latest advancements in work function-guided electrocatalyst design for diverse electrochemical energy applications is provided. This includes the development of work function-based catalytic activity descriptors, and the design of both monolithic and heterostructural catalysts. The measurement of work function is first discussed and the applications of work function-based catalytic activity descriptors for various reactions are fully analyzed. Subsequently, the work function-regulated material-electrolyte interfacial electron transfer (IET) is employed for monolithic catalyst design, and methods for regulating the work function and optimizing the catalytic performance of catalysts are discussed. In addition, key strategies for tuning the work function-governed material-material IET in heterostructural catalyst design are examined. Finally, perspectives on work function determination, work function-based activity descriptors, and catalyst design are put forward to guide future research. This work paves the way to the work function-guided rational design of efficient electrocatalysts for sustainable energy applications., (© 2024 The Authors. Advanced Materials published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Synergetic management of waste activated sludge, heavy metals (HMs) and CO 2 for their valorization and cyclic utilization is rarely reported. Herein, we employed sludge-derived extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and HMs in wastewater to fabricate a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) for electrochemical CO 2 reduction. This approach atomically dispersed Ni at each nanofiber of the GDE. Abundant N element in the EPS proved to play a key role in the formation of N x -Ni (mixture of N 3 -Ni and N 4 -Ni) sites for highly efficient CO 2 to CO conversion. The atomical Ni 3+ shows high catalytic activity. Direct gaseous CO 2 reduction in a membrane electrode assembly generated a current density up to 50 mA·cm -2 with CO:H 2 ratio of ∼100 and ∼75% FE CO under 2.69 cell voltage. This strategy takes advantage of all waste streams generated on site and consolidates traditionally separated treatment processes to save costs, produces value-added products and generates carbon benefits during wastewater treatment., Competing Interests: L.L., B.Z., Z.L., and C.Z. are co-inventors on filed China patent ZL202210841460.1 related to a method for GDE fabrication based on electrospinning technology that incorporate discoveries included in this manuscript., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

Summary: Electrocatalysis offers a promising strategy to take advantage of the increasingly available and affordable renewable energy for the sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. Attaining this promise requires a molecular level insight of the electrical interface that can be used to tailor the selectivity of electrocatalysts. Addressing this selectivity challenge remains one of the most important areas in modern electrocatalytic research. In this Perspective, we focus on the use of in situ techniques to bridge the gap in the fundamental understanding of electrocatalytic processes. We begin with a brief discussion of traditional electrochemical techniques, ex situ measurements and in silico analysis. Subsequently, we discuss the utility and limitations of in situ methodologies, with a focus on vibrational spectroscopies. We then end by looking ahead toward promising new areas for the application of in situ techniques and improvements to current methods.

Summary: Efficient electrocatalyst toward hydrogen evolution/oxidation reactions (HER/HOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is desirable for water splitting, fuel cells, etc. Herein, we report an advanced platinum phosphide (PtP2) material with only 3.5 wt % Pt loading embedded in phosphorus and nitrogen dual-doped carbon (PNC) layer (PtP2@PNC). The obtained catalyst exhibits robust HER, HOR, and ORR performance. For the HER, a much low overpotential of 8 mV is required to achieve the current density of 10 mA cm−2 compared with Pt/C (22 mV). For the HOR, its mass activity (MA) at an overpotential of 40 mV is 2.3-fold over that of the Pt/C catalyst. Interestingly, PtP2@PNC also shows exceptional ORR MA which is 2.6 times higher than that of Pt/C and has robust stability in alkaline solutions. Undoubtedly, this work reveals that PtP2@PNC can be employed as nanocatalysts with an impressive catalytic activity and stability for broad applications in electrocatalysis.

Summary: Understanding the relationships between porous transport layer (PTL) morphology and oxygen removal is essential to improve the polymer electrolyte water electrolyzer (PEWE) performance. Operando X-ray computed tomography and machine learning were performed on a model electrolyzer at different water flow rates and current densities to determine how these operating conditions alter oxygen transport in the PTLs. We report a direct observation of oxygen taking preferential pathways through the PTL, regardless of the water flow rate or current density (1-4 A/cm2). Oxygen distribution in the PTL had a periodic behavior with period of 400 μm. A computational fluid dynamics model was used to predict oxygen distribution in the PTL showing periodic oxygen front. Observed oxygen distribution is due to low in-plane PTL tortuosity and high porosity enabling merging of oxygen bubbles in the middle of the PTL and also due to aerophobicity of the layer.

Summary: Photoelectrochemical water splitting has been intensively investigated as artificial photosynthesis technology to convert solar energy into chemical energy. The use of seawater and salted water has advantages for minimum environmental burden; however, the oxidation of Cl− ion to hypochlorous acid (HClO), which has toxicity and heavy corrosiveness, should occur at the anode, along with the oxygen evolution. Here, O2 and HClO production in aqueous solution containing Cl− on photoanodes modified with various metal oxides was investigated. The modification of MnOx resulted in the promotion of the O2 evolution reaction (OER) specifically without HClO production over a wide range of conditions. The results will contribute not only to the practical application of artificial photosynthesis using salted water but also to the elucidation of substantial function of manganese as the element for OER center in natural photosynthesis.

Summary: Photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction into syngas (a mixture of CO and H2) provides a promising route to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and store intermittent solar energy into value-added chemicals. Design of photoelectrode with high energy conversion efficiency and controllable syngas composition is of central importance but remains challenging. Herein, we report a decoupling strategy using dual cocatalysts to tackle the challenge based on joint computational and experimental investigations. Density functional theory calculations indicate the optimization of syngas generation using a combination of fundamentally distinctive catalytic sites. Experimentally, by integrating spatially separated dual cocatalysts of a CO-generating catalyst and a H2-generating catalyst with GaN nanowires on planar Si photocathode, we report a record high applied bias photon-to-current efficiency of 1.88% and controllable syngas products with tunable CO/H2 ratios (0–10) under one-sun illumination. Moreover, unassisted solar CO2 reduction with a solar-to-syngas efficiency of 0.63% is demonstrated in a tandem photoelectrochemical cell.