Topological quantum materials for energy conversion and storage

Observation of a robust and active catalyst for hydrogen evolution under high current densities

“…We find the in situ formation of ferromagnetic Ru clusters at the surface of the bulk single crystal after activation. In combination with DFT calculations, we confirm that the charge redistribution at the interface between Ru clusters and the bulk SRO, the excellent bulk conductivities, and the optimized wettability are responsible for the observed high performance 41 . Our studies shed new light on the design of durable catalysts that could withstand harsh conditions of industrial-scale hydrogen production.…”

2D NbIrTe4 and TaRhTe4 monolayers: two fascinating topological insulators as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction

“…, water splitting and fuel cells). 13 Particularly, the topological surface state is usually robust, and it will not be eliminated even if the topological materials are subjected to local perturbations, such as light doping, defect creation, chemisorption of air molecules, or even slight oxidation when exposed to the ambient environment. 15–18…”

“…Currently, topologically nontrivial electronic structures can provide new opportunities for chemists, especially in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. [11][12][13][14] Compared with traditional materials, topological materials can bring a fast, low dissipation and high mobility electron transfer channel, which can effectively improve the conductivity of electrodes in electrochemical reactions. Currently, topological materials can be considered as an ideal platform for understanding surface reactions and finding high-efficiency materials for energy conversion and storage (e.g., water splitting and fuel cells).…”

“…Currently, topological materials can be considered as an ideal platform for understanding surface reactions and finding high-efficiency materials for energy conversion and storage (e.g., water splitting and fuel cells). 13 Particularly, the topological surface state is usually robust, and it will not be eliminated even if the topological materials are subjected to local perturbations, such as light doping, defect creation, chemisorption of air molecules, or even slight oxidation when exposed to the ambient environment. [15][16][17][18] In view of these obvious advantages, the design of electrocatalysts based on topological materials has attracted great interest from researchers.…”

Amorphization of LaCoO3 Perovskite Nanostructures for Efficient Oxygen Evolution

“…Electrocatalysis is an effective route to convert electrical energy from renewable energy sources such as wind energy into green fuels and available chemicals . Hydrogen from electrocatalytic water splitting has been considered as green and sustainable energy, which needs two half reactions of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). − Among them, OER is the limiting step in water electrocatalysis, due to multiple electron and proton transfers, sluggish reaction kinetics, and large activation barrier, which impairs conversion efficiency of related energy devices. − Substantial efforts have been devoted over the past decade to explore advanced OER electrocatalysts with promising activity and durability, which range from transition-metal compounds, − IrO 2 or RuO 2 -based nanomaterials, , atomically dispersed metal, etc.…”