Structural Designs and in-situ X-ray Characterizations of Metal Phosphides for Electrocatalysis

Electrocatalysis is one of the most attractive technologies for renewable energy storage and conversion to meet global energy demand. Thus it has attracted considerable research efforts for the development of inexpensive and efficient electrocatalysts. Recent research progress has demonstrated that the Earth-abundant metal-based phosphides are attractive materials for efficient electrocatalysis because of attractive features such as tunable structure and high activity. In this Minireview, we summarize the latest research progress of metal phosphide-based materials as efficient electrocatalysts. The synthesis approaches of metal phosphides and the factors that influence structural reconstruction in certain reactions are reviewed and discussed. Specifically, advanced in-situ X-ray characterization techniques for metal phosphide research in the field of electrocatalysis are also highlighted. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives for these materials are presented.