Materials for Anodic Oxidation Reaction: Water Oxidation, Organic Oxidation, Ammonia Oxidation

Electrocatalytic water splitting is a sustainable pathway to large-scale hydrogen production and aligns with global renewable energy goals by providing clean, zero-carbon fuel. Hybrid water electrolysis addresses the limitations of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), including sluggish kinetics, large overpotential, and explosive risk, thereby allowing for continuous hydrogen generation and the conversion of organic compounds into valuable chemicals. Feedstock for this process can be small alcohols such as methanol and ethanol, biomass-derived alcohols, and plastic-waste-derived alcohols, and electrocatalytic treatment also offers an effective solution for organic wastewater pollutants. Ammonia from fertilizer, industry, and water treatment must be oxidized to prevent environmental harm through water pollution and ecological system damage. Electrochemical ammonia oxidation in fuel cells enables ammonia to be a hydrogen carrier, in which clean energy is obtained by producing byproducts such as nitrogen and water. Apart from that, it reduces pollutants and the nitrogen recovered helps in utilizing fertilizers thus promoting eco-friendly agriculture, and reducing the carbon footprint in chemical industries. The performance and stability in chemical synthesis, energy conversion, and environmental remediation through anodic oxidation reactions require highly engineered materials that make up the electrode. This chapter explores recent advancements in anodic material design, highlighting challenges and future directions for developing efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable electrodes tailored to specific oxidation processes.