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

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.