Self-supported earth-abundant nanoarrays as efficient and robust electrocatalysts for energy-related reactions

Abstract

The replacement of precious-metal-based catalysts with earth-abundant alternatives for a diverse range of electrochemical applications is of great importance for next-generation energy technologies. Many self-supported earth-abundant nanoarrays have emerged as state-of-the-art electrocatalysts due to their fascinating structures and electrochemical properties. This Review presents recent advances made toward developing self-supported earth-abundant nanoarrays for a wide range of energy-conversion processes. We summarize the different synthetic methods used to construct nanoarrays and tune their compositions, morphologies, and structures. Then, we highlight their application and performance as catalysts for various energy-related reactions. We also discuss their ability to perform as bifunctional electrocatalysts in energy devices. Finally, we conclude with the challenges and prospects in this promising field, where further exploration into these materials will facilitate the development of next-generation energy technologies.