Electrocatalytic water splitting: A review under the shade of metal-organic frameworks

The topic of water electrolysis has garnered significant interest in modern years due to its potential as a crucial element in the advancement of renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources. The demand for the development of highly efficient catalysts that exhibit exceptional performance and possess multiple functionalities in the context of electrochemical water splitting is of utmost importance. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have garnered significant attention as a highly promising category of materials for facilitating electrochemical water decomposition. This is primarily due to their remarkable characteristics such as abundant porosities, expansive surface areas, and customizable structures. The objective of this article is to provide a thorough examination of the latest advancements in MOF-based electro-catalysts utilized in the process of water electrolysis. Herein, we will begin by providing an overview of the reaction mechanisms involved in hydrogen and oxygen evolution, followed by the discussion of the significant parameters that are used to evaluate the active response of electro-catalysts in these reactions and also the techniques which can be adopted to fabricate the MOF-based electrodes are discussed. The investigation of recent advancements in the structure and functionalities of various types of MOF-based electro-catalysts, including pristine MOFs, dual-metal MOFs, carbon based derivatives of MOFs, and MOF-composites, has been stated in a critical manner. Besides, other strategies to enhance the stability and catalytic performance of the MOFs without tuning the elements and mixing linkers are briefly discussed. Furthermore, we aim to comprehensively assess the key challenges that impede the successful commercialization of MOF-based electro-catalysts. This review presents significant perspectives for researchers and engineers who are engaged in the advancement of electro-catalysts with high activity and stability for water electrolysis as well as policymakers and investors who are keen on fostering the commercialization of sustainable green energy technologies can benefit from the information provided.