Nickel-Based Anode Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Production

Hydrogen is praised as a promising carrier of clean energy due to its high calorific combustion value and environmental friendliness. The idea of water electrolysis powered by renewable electricity to produce high-quality hydrogen has ignited fervor among researchers in pursuit of sustainable energy development. However, the sluggish kinetics of the traditional anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) hinders efficient energy conversion. Given this, researchers propose new ideas to improve energy conversion efficiency by developing alternative anodic reaction types and catalysts. This review focuses on nickel-based electrocatalysts, highlighting their recent advancements in conventional OER as well as emerging small molecule electrooxidation reactions. We provide insights into catalyst design and synthesis, performance optimization, mechanism exploration, and structure–activity relationships. Additionally, we discuss the current challenges and potential solutions of Ni-based anode electrocatalysts for hydrogen production.