Transition metal oxides for bifunctional ORR/OER electrocatalysis in unitized regenerative fuel cells

Abstract

Among many alternatives to fossil fuel-based energy systems, one of the most promising is based on hydrogen energy and its production and use in unitized regenerative fuel cells as the primary energy conversion devices. However, there are some setbacks and challenges when designing suitable and efficient electrocatalysts for these devices. The most effective and durable catalysts are based on platinum–group metals, with low abundance and unbearably high prices. Many attempts were undertaken to overcome this setback by designing catalysts suitable for massive commercial use. This review paper focuses on recent advances in developing bifunctional catalysts for oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution catalysis in alkaline media, based on abundant transition metal oxides (TMOs): MnO2, NiO, and TiO2. The problem of unifying parameters to compare the effectiveness of different electrocatalysts is emphasized. This review discusses the most promising alternative bifunctional electrocatalysts by comparing the performance of TMOs with some precious metal catalysts used as benchmarks.