Progress of Metal Chalcogenides as Catalysts for Efficient Electrosynthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide

oleh: Jeong-Hyun Kim, Jeong-Gyu Lee, Min-Jae Choi

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2024-08-01

Deskripsi

Hydrogen peroxide (H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>) is a high-demand chemical, valued as a powerful and eco-friendly oxidant for various industrial applications. The traditional industrial method for producing H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>, known as the anthraquinone process, is both costly and environmentally problematic. Electrochemical synthesis, which produces H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> using electricity, offers a sustainable alternative, particularly suited for small-scale, continuous on-site H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> generation due to the portability of electrocatalytic devices. For efficient H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> electrosynthesis, electrocatalysts must exhibit high selectivity, activity, and stability for the two-electron pathway-oxygen reduction reaction (2e<sup>−</sup> ORR). Transition-metal chalcogenide (TMC)-based materials have emerged as promising candidates for effective 2e<sup>−</sup> ORR due to their high activity in acidic environments and the abundance of their constituent elements. This review examines the potential of TMC-based catalysts in H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> electrosynthesis, categorizing them into noble-metal and non-noble-metal chalcogenides. It underscores the importance of achieving high selectivity, activity, and stability in 2e<sup>−</sup> ORR. By reviewing recent advancements and identifying key challenges, this review provides valuable insights into the development of TMC-based electrocatalysts for sustainable H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> production.