Designing 3d dual transition metal electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte: Beyond oxides

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a vital role in electrochemical water splitting, leading to a more feasible route for sustainably and eco-friendly producing hydrogen energy. Rather than noble metal catalysts with scarcity and expense, first raw 3d dual transition metal non-oxides are promising candidates to achieve superior OER activity and durability in alkaline solution due to their tunable electron structure, high conductivity, and cost-off advantages. Herein, a concise review of recent advances in designing 3d dual transition metal non-oxides electrocatalysts for OER under alkaline condition is provided with particular emphasis on structure-performance relationships. The diverse effects of 3d dual transition metals, especially for Ti, V, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, are highlighted in discussion regarding synthesis strategies and OER performances of corresponding electrocatalysts, in different categories of transition metal sulfides, selenides, phosphides, nitrides, and other non-oxides. Finally, existent challenges and directional perspectives for developing first raw 3d dual transition metal non-oxides electrocatalysts with outstanding OER performance are outlined.