In Situ Amorphization of Electrocatalysts

Electrocatalysis represents an efficient and eco-friendly approach to energy conversion, enabling the sustainable synthesis of valuable chemicals and fuels. The deliberate engineering of electrocatalysts is crucial to improving the efficacy and scalability of electrocatalysis. Notably, the occurrence of in situ amorphization within electrocatalysts has been observed during various electrochemical processes, influencing the energy conversion efficiency and catalytic mechanism understanding. Of note, the dynamic transformation of catalysts into amorphous structures is complex, often leading to various amorphous configurations. Therefore, revealing this amorphization process and understanding the function of amorphous species are pivotal for elucidating the structure-activity relationship of electrocatalysts, which will direct the creation of highly efficient catalysts. This review examines the mechanisms behind amorphous structure formation, summarizes characterization methods for detecting amorphous species, and discusses strategies for controlling (pre)catalyst properties and electrochemical conditions that influence amorphization. It also emphasizes the importance of spontaneously formed amorphous species in electrochemical oxidation and reduction reactions. Finally, it addresses challenges in the in situ amorphization of electrocatalysts. aiming to guide the synthesis of electrocatalysts for efficient, selective, and stable electrochemical reactions, and to inspire future advancements in the field.