A review of the electrocatalysts on hydrogen evolution reaction with an emphasis on Fe, Co and Ni-based phosphides

Hydrogen fuel receives worldwide attention for the zero emission and high energy density. Production of hydrogen by electrochemical water splitting requires efficient electrocatalysts to boost the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Transition metal phosphides are regarded as promising substitutes for precious metals as HER electrocatalysts. This review focuses on the recent progress with respect to the advantages, common synthetic approaches and enhancement strategies of Fe, Co and Ni-based phosphides, with important works in each section elaborately introduced for researchers in the relevant area. After the rational design and fabrication, Fe, Co and Ni-based phosphides can become highly efficient, durable and cost-effective electrocatalysts, and thereby exhibit a great potential for the scale-up production of hydrogen fuel.