Recent Trends in Transition Metal Phosphide (TMP)-Based Seawater Electrolysis for Hydrogen Evolution

Large-scale hydrogen (H2) production is an essential gear in the future bioeconomy. Hydrogen production through electrocatalytic seawater splitting is a crucial technique and has gained considerable attention. The direct seawater electrolysis technique has been designed to use seawater in place of highly purified water, which is essential for electrolysis, since seawater is widely available. This paper offers a structured approach by briefly describing the chemical processes, such as competitive chloride evolution, anodic oxygen evolution, and cathodic hydrogen evolution, that govern seawater electrocatalytic reactions. In this review, advanced technologies in transition metal phosphide-based seawater electrolysis catalysts are briefly discussed, including transition metal doping with phosphorus, the nanosheet structure of phosphides, and structural engineering approaches. Application progress, catalytic process efficiency, opportunities, and problems related to transition metal phosphides are also highlighted in detail. Collectively, this review is a comprehensive summary of the topic, focusing on the challenges and opportunities.

Automated summary

This article summarizes the key technologies and advanced methods for hydrogen production through electrocatalytic seawater splitting. The direct seawater electrolysis technique, which uses seawater instead of highly purified water, shows great potential for vast applications. The paper also discusses in detail the new technologies and application progress of transition metal phosphide-based seawater electrolysis catalysts, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced.