Modeling of electron transfer across electrochemical interfaces: State-of-the art and challenges for quantum and computational chemistry

State-of-the-art in the area of quantum-chemical modeling of electron transfer (ET) processes at metal electrode/electrolyte solution interfaces is reviewed. Emphasis is put on key quantities which control the ET rate (activation energy, transmission coefficient, and work terms). Orbital overlap effect in electrocatalysis is thoroughly discussed. The advantages and drawbacks of cluster and periodical slab models for a metal electrode when describing redox processes are analyzed as well. It is stressed that reliable quantitative estimations of the rate constants of interfacial charge transfer reactions are hardly possible, while predictions of qualitatively interesting effects are more valuable. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.