Electronic modulation and interface engineering of electrospun nanomaterials‐based electrocatalysts toward water splitting

Abstract

AbstractNowdays, electrocatalytic water splitting has been regarded as one of the most efficient means to approach the urgent energy crisis and environmental issues. However, to speed up the electrocatalytic conversion efficiency of their half reactions including hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), electrocatalysts are usually essential to reduce their kinetic energy barriers. Electrospun nanomaterials possess a unique one‐dimensional structure for outstanding electron and mass transportation, large specific surface area, and the possibilities of flexibility with the porous feature, which are good candidates as efficient electrocatalysts for water splitting. In this review, we focus on the recent research progress on the electrospun nanomaterials‐based electrocatalysts for HER, OER, and overall water splitting reaction. Specifically, the insights of the influence of the electronic modulation and interface engineering of these electrocatalysts on their electrocatalytic activities will be deeply discussed and highlighted. Furthermore, the challenges and development opportunities of the electrospun nanomaterials‐based electrocatalysts for water splitting are featured. Based on the achievements of the significantly enhanced performance from the electronic modulation and interface engineering of these electrocatalysts, full utilization of these materials for practical energy conversion is anticipated.