Coupled electrocatalytic hydrogen production

Hydrogen has emerged as a clean and renewable energy source with the potential to mitigate global energy and environmental crises. Electrolytic water splitting, a highly efficient and sustainable technology, has garnered significant attention for hydrogen production. However, the slow kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction on the anode and the high energy consumption limit the practicality of industrial-scale electrocatalytic water splitting. To address the challenge, the development of advanced electrolytic systems and the exploration of alternative oxidation reactions are crucial. This review highlights the recent advancements in coupled electrocatalytic hydrogen production strategies, including urea and hydrazine oxidation, value-adding electrosynthesis using small molecules, and waste upcycling and degradation. Various catalysts, the pertinent catalytic mechanisms for anodic oxidation reactions, and methods to decrease the energy barriers are discussed. Furthermore, the potential challenges and prospects for energy-saving electrolysis and promotion of hydrogen production are examined. A comprehensive understanding of these strategies and their implications is important to the development of efficient and sustainable hydrogen production. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.