Mini Review on Gas Transport Regulation: A Key Strategy To Enhance the Performance of Water-Splitting Catalysts

In the process of electrocatalytic water splitting, managing gaseous products is crucial. Rapid gas diffusion on the electrode surface can accelerate mass transfer, thereby enhancing energy conversion efficiency. In recent years, the regulation of electrode surface wettability through compositional and structural engineering has garnered significant attention. In this review, we first introduce the generation and detachment processes of gas bubbles and explore their impact on gas transport and mass transfer in water-splitting reactions, emphasizing the importance of efficient gas transport in improving catalyst activity and stability. Subsequently, we delve into the fundamental principles of wettability and discuss design principles and potential mechanisms for enhancing gas transport efficiency through chemical modification, structural design, and gradient electrode design. Finally, we propose future research directions in this field.