Exploring deep eutectic solvents for the electrochemical and chemical synthesis of photo- and electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2023.07.158
• Publication Date: 2023-08-01T05:16:10Z
• Authors: A. Kityk; V. Pavlik; M. Hnatko

Hydrogen energy technologies present promising and sustainable solution to address the imminent energy crisis. Electrochemical hydrogen production from aqueous solutions emerges as a potential pathway for large-scale hydrogen generation. The effectiveness of electrochemical hydrogen production hinges upon the development of highly efficient photo-and electrocatalysts. This comprehensive review contextualizes the utilization of a deep eutectic solvents (DESs) in the creation of highly efficient photo-and electrocatalytic coatings for hydrogen evolution. It encompasses a discussion of recent research achievements, and presents various proposals that can inspire the advancement of novel photo-and electrocatalytic materials for hydrogen production. This review extensively compiles, summarizes, and deliberates upon electrochemical and chemical methods used for the synthesis of efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution, including noble metals, transition metals, their alloys, composites, as well as titanium dioxide photocatalysts, in DESs. The specific decisive effect of DESs utilization on nano-sized morphological features of obtained catalysts is highlighted. A critical comparison between aqueous electrolytes, which are commonly used in the HER catalysts development, and newest DESs is presented. (c) 2023 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.