Decoupling activity and selectivity in catalysis reactions with plasma electrochemical systems

Electrochemical systems are considered key technologies for integrating directly with renewable energy sources. However, the development and industrial adoption of certain electrochemical systems are hindered by low efficiencies and current densities, particularly for the activation of inert chemical bonds. Plasma-electrochemical systems have emerged as a transformative approach to overcoming these challenges by decoupling the requirement for bond activation and reaction selectivity. This hybrid configuration allows plasma to drive the activation of strong chemical bonds, while the electrochemical interface controls product formation. As a result, activity and selectivity can be optimized independently, offering a significant advantage over conventional approaches. Plasma-electrochemical systems have been successfully applied in ammonia synthesis, CO₂ reduction, methane activation, and environmental pollutant remediation. This review discusses recent advancements in plasma-electrochemical experimental setups and key chemical mechanisms involved in various catalytic conversions.