A review on non-noble metal based electrocatalysis for the oxygen evolution reaction

In order to find a clean, efficient and sustainable new energy source that can replace fossil fuels, hydrogen energy is considered to be the most ideal choice. Electrocatalytic oxygen evolution plays a vital role in the development of hydrogen energy, promotes the research of new electrocatalysts, and is dedicated to find materials with high electrocatalytic efficiency. This article discusses in detail the major developments in OER electrocatalysts, including recently reported metal and non-metal based materials. Metal-based catalysts, although having the advantages of high catalytic activity, have disadvantages such as poor stability and low selectivity, which hinder the further application of such materials. Non-metallic based materials avoid such disadvantages and exhibit very substantial performance in overall water decomposition. This review provides useful knowledge of a well-designed OER electrocatalyst and a possible strategy for OER/HER dual-function catalytic performance for future development.