Molecular approach to catalysis of electrochemical reaction in porous films

Abstract Current attempts to bridge the fields of what is conventionally called ‘electrocatalysis’ and of molecular catalysis of electrochemical reactions are surveyed and discussed. It amounts in many cases to ‘heterogenize’ molecular catalytic systems. Information on the meso- to nanostructures of the resulting catalytic films forms the basis of the understanding of new modes of transport of the reactants (catalysts, substrates and cosubstrates, products) that may govern the mechanistic competitions and consequently selectivity. Efforts to adapt benchmarking procedures developed in homogeneous molecular catalysis (catalytic Tafel plots) should be encouraged, taking into account, as additional factors, the transport of electrons and reacting species (including gases) through the catalytic system.