Advanced Fe Electrocatalysts: Unlocking Sustainable, Selective, and Durable Seawater Electrolysis

Abstract

Abstract Seawater electrolysis (SWE) serves as a renewable alternative, significantly lowering the costs of electrolyzer technologies by eliminating the need for supplementary water purification operations, hence facilitating marine offshore H 2 generation and providing pure drinking water. Nonetheless, the intricate composition of seawater and the challenges associated with commercial SWE are significant, including local pH variations, solid impurities and precipitates, and the competition between the chlorine evolution reaction (CER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). To reshape the energy landscape and achieve carbon neutrality, the development of cost‐efficient electrocatalysts for SWE with adjustable electrocatalytic activity, enhanced OER selectivity, and sustained stability under elevated current densities is a crucial consideration and pragmatic option. This review systematically elucidates the principles and mechanisms of SWE, analyzes corrosion resistance strategies, and identifies difficulties related to activity and durability to enhance comprehensive research and practical application of Fe‐based electrocatalysts. It critically examines diverse contemporary methodologies for tailoring advanced Fe nanomaterials and summarizes the latest developments in various electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), OER in seawater, and overall seawater splitting (OSWS), supported by significant studies from recent literature. Furthermore, current challenges, opportunities, and distinctive insights for developing efficient and durable electrocatalysts and integrated seawater electrolyzers are well emphasized.