In situ X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy of electrocatalysts for energy conversion reactions

In the face of climate change and rising energy consumption, electrocatalysis for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) have become promising catalytic processes to address these critical issues. By integrating OER and HER/CO2RR with renewable energy, it may potentially provide a promising way for a sustainable human society. Nonetheless, lack of understanding of catalysts under working conditions and reaction mechanisms restrict the development of efficient catalysts. In recent years, in situ techniques that can be used to investigate the structural transformation of catalysts during the reaction have attracted considerable research interest. Herein, recent developments in heterogeneous catalysts for OER, HER, and CO2RR explored by using in situ X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy techniques have been comprehensively summarized. Finally, challenges and future perspectives in this field are also provided to pave the way for future developments.