Metal‐Organic Framework‐Based Electrocatalysts for Acidic Water Splitting

Abstract

The proton exchange membrane water electrolysis system has long been considered a promising technique for the generation of hydrogen owing to its high electrolytic efficiency, reliability, and quick response to renewable energy sources. At present, noble metals and their oxides (e.g., Pt, IrO₂, and RuO₂) are widely used as high active electrocatalysts for accelerating the conversion efficiency of the water electrolysis process, especially in acidic media. Nevertheless, the scarcity and instability seriously impede their large‐scale application in practice. In the past years, metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have proven to be an ideal platform for designing efficient and cost‐effective electrodes due to their unique physicochemical properties. In this review, the fundamental catalytic mechanisms of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic media are discussed first. Then, design strategies and advanced characterizations for MOF‐based water‐splitting catalysts are summarized. Finally, the recent research advances of MOF‐based electrocatalysts for HER and OER in acidic electrolytes, along with current challenges and future opportunities, are provided.