Modulation of Electrochemical Reactions through External Stimuli: Applications in Oxygen Evolution Reaction and Beyond

Electrochemical water splitting is a promising method for generating green hydrogen gas, offering a sustainable approach to addressing global energy challenges. However, the sluggish kinetics of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) poses a great obstacle to its practical application. Recently, increasing attention has been focused on introducing various external stimuli to modify the OER process. Despite significant enhancement in catalytic performance, an in-depth understanding of the origin of superior OER activity contributed by the external stimuli remains elusive, which significantly hinders the further development of highly efficient and durable water electrolyzed devices. Herein, this review systematically summarizes the recent advancements in the understanding of various external stimuli, including photon irradiation, applied magnetic field, and thermal heating, etc., to boost OER activities. In particular, the underlying mechanisms of external stimuli to promote species transfer, modify the electronic structure of electrocatalysts, and accelerate structural reconstruction are highlighted. Additionally, applications of external stimuli in other electrocatalytic reactions are also presented. Finally, several remaining challenges and future opportunities are discussed, providing insights that could further the study of external stimuli in electrocatalytic reactions and support the rational design of highly efficient energy storage and conversion devices.