Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) and Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) in Hydrogen–Oxygen Fuel Cells

Abstract

Among various sustainable developmental strategies and technologies adopted to address environmental issues associated with fossil fuels, fuel cells are in the limelight as primary energy conversion devices. Fuel cells feature a bifunctional electrode that facilitates the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, the design of a potent bifunctional catalyst encounters several challenges. The use of low-abundance precious metal catalysts, which are expensive, inhibits the commercialization of fuel cells. This chapter discusses alternative catalyst options to precious metal catalysts and strategies to enhance the electrocatalytic performance of these catalysts.