journal article·2025-07Open access

Advancements in electrochemical synthesis: Expanding from water electrolysis to dual-value-added products

Genxiang Wang, Ao Chen, Yao Chen, Fen Qiao, Junfeng Wang, Nianjun Yang, Hao Zhang, Zhenhai Wen

eScience· Volume 5· Issue 4

Abstract

The application of electrochemical technologies for chemical and fuel synthesis offers a significantly more eco-friendly method than traditional industrial practice. However, electrochemical synthesis in aqueous solutions often involves a sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode, yielding products that are less economically viable and leading to inefficient energy use. This challenge has prompted extensive research into replacing the OER with fast, value-added oxidation reactions (OER alternatives) in electrolysis systems. In this review, we summarize the latest research progress in coupled electrochemical systems that integrate OER alternatives with reduction reactions, beyond hydrogen evolution reactions, in aqueous solutions to synthesize dual value-added products. After providing a general overview, we start by introducing two key factors: (i) electrolytic devices and (ii) advanced characterization techniques for mechanism investigation. The focus then shifts to catalysts developed so far and their corresponding catalytic mechanisms, and to the electrochemical performance of these hybrid electrolysis systems. Finally, we outline and discuss the challenges and prospects for these integrated electrochemical systems to offer insights into future research directions and applications. We envision that this review will provide a panorama of electrolysis systems for dual value-added products, thereby fostering the development of green synthesis with zero carbon emissions. • The electrochemical hybrid systems pairing value-added OER alternatives with reduction reactions beyond HER are reviewed. • The catalytic mechanism of developed catalysts and electrochemical performance of these systems are particularly analyzed. • The challenges encountered by these integrated electrochemical systems and a perspective on future directions are delineated.
Source: openalex_inverted_index · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: CO2 Reduction Techniques and Catalysts · Electrocatalysts for Energy Conversion · Ammonia Synthesis and Nitrogen Reduction

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

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