Carbon Based Metal Free Electrocatalysis for Energy Conversion, Energy Storage, and Environmental Protection
Carbon based metal free catalysts possess desirable properties such as high earth abundance, low cost, high electrical conductivity, structural tunability, good selectivity, strong stability in acidic/alkaline conditions, and environmental friendliness. Because of these properties, these catalysts have recently received increasing attention in energy and environmental applications. Subsequently, various carbon based electrocatalysts have been developed to replace noble metal catalysts for low cost renewable generation and storage of clean energy and environmental protection through metal free electrocatalysis. This article provides an up to date review of this rapidly developing field by critically assessing recent advances in the mechanistic understanding, structure design, and material/device fabrication of metal free carbon based electrocatalysts for clean energy conversion/storage and environmental protection, along with discussions on current challenges and perspectives.Graphical Abstract
Electrochemical Energy Reviews