Progress and perspectives of rapid Joule heating for the preparation of highly efficient catalysts

Functional catalytic materials play an important role in environmental, biological, energy, and other fields, wherein unique properties can be endowed through various synthesis strategies. However, conventional catalyst preparation methods suffer from mild conditions, prolonged treatment and low energy transfer efficiency, thus leading to limited inherent characterisation of catalysts (such as surface oxidation and agglomeration). Recently, the rapid Joule heating method, as a novel synthesis method, has attracted widespread attention owing to its controllable kinetic conditions and eco-friendly operation, while the mechanisms, advantages and recent progress of this method have been summarized in few reviews. Herein, we systematically summarize basic fundamentals and parameters of the Joule heating technique as well as recent processes in terms of effective modification strategies based on Joule heating. Meanwhile, perspective suggestions and challenges for Joule heating methods in terms of catalytic materials are put forward. This review provides an understanding for designing advanced catalytic materials.