Enhancing electrocatalysis using external fields: A review of mechanisms and applications

Electrocatalytic technological advances stipulate an appropriate strategy regarding preserving electricity, redevelopment, and consumption. The pursuit of environmentally conscious substitute power has heightened curiosity concerning electrocatalysis, a prospective concept that integrates electrochemistry with catalyst development. The design and modification of electrocatalysts are commonly employed to greatly boost the efficiency of electrocatalytic outcomes; yet, challenges may arise that prevent notable advancements. Continuous improvements in novel approaches are necessary to achieve high-performance electrocatalysis. The implementation of electromagnetic fields is an intriguing technique to accelerate mass transport and customize the trajectory of reactions, considerably enhancing electrocatalytic productivity. The present article highlights the latest innovations in the effective application of diverse external fields, such as light, electromagnetic waves, elastic stress, external forces, and gravity to accelerate electrocatalytic processes, including water splitting, alcohol oxidation reactions, carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction, and N2 reduction. External fields employ relevant techniques that strengthen reactant adsorption, bulk dispersion, and increase charge transfer. The remaining challenges and potential opportunities for combining electrocatalysis with external fields are assessed. Additionally, it encapsulates principal implications for magnetic fields throughout multiple electrocatalytic processes, underpinned by computational methods believed to elucidate the microscopic mechanisms. This thorough assessment conveys both a conceptual and an experimental framework to support accelerating the development of novel electrocatalysts, encouraging the advancement of advanced and environmentally friendly electrocatalytic technologies, and ultimately representing a crucial progression towards the enhancement of energy efficiency and sustainability.