Recent advances in electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction

As a clean energy source, hydrogen plays a critical role in the global mission to achieve carbon neutrality. Among varied hydrogen production techniques, water electrolysis driven by clean energy, such as solar or wind energy, is the most promising and viable option, with the advantages of celerity, high efficiency, cleanliness, and sustainability. However, this process necessitates a highly active and durable hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst to enhance the overall reaction efficiency. This article thoroughly reviews the recent development of electrocatalysts exhibiting high-performance HER. In particular, a comprehensive look at noble metals platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), and non-noble metals, including sulfides, carbides, nitrides and phosphides is taken. Synthesis strategies, methods for enhancing performance, and the correlation between structure, composition, and catalytic performance are discussed. We also pay particular attention to density functional theory (DFT) calculations to reveal the mechanisms behind the improvement of HER performance. Finally, the critical challenges associated with electrochemical water splitting and propose coping strategies are presented.