Revolutionizing Energy with Electrocatalysis: From Hydrogen Production to CO2 Reduction

Electrocatalysis is a pivotal field in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. With global warming posing a significant threat, the reliance on fossil fuels, which account for over 80% of global energy demand, has led to alarming levels of carbon emissions. As of July 2023, atmospheric CO2 levels reached 422 ppm, exacerbated by a growing global population and rapid industrialization. Projections indicate that if current trends continue, we will surpass the global carbon budget by 2050, leading to catastrophic climate consequences. The urgent need to transition to green and renewable energy sources is evident. Electrocatalysis offers a promising avenue, enabling the conversion of chemical energy into electricity and vice versa, with hydrogen emerging as a key player. Hydrogen, produced via water electrolysis, can be stored, transported, and reconverted into electricity, presenting a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Despite significant advancements, there remain gaps in our understanding and application of electrocatalytic processes, necessitating further research to optimize these technologies and reduce CO2 emissions.

This Research Topic aims to gather significant breakthroughs in the electrocatalysis field that will help achieve a more sustainable energy landscape in the following years. The primary objective is to explore innovative electrocatalysts and devices for electrochemical energy conversion, enhancing our understanding of electrocatalytic reactions. Key questions include identifying the most efficient materials and methods for electrocatalysis, understanding the underlying mechanisms of these reactions, and developing scalable technologies for practical applications. Hypotheses to be tested may involve the efficiency and stability of new electrocatalysts, the impact of different environmental conditions on electrocatalytic performance, and the potential for integrating these technologies into existing energy systems.

To gather further insights in the realm of electrocatalysis, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Electrocatalysis
- Interfacial Electrochemistry
- Physical Methods for the Study of Electrode Surfaces and Interfaces
- Computational Simulations in Electrochemistry
- Electrochemical Engineering
- Electrochemical Materials Science
- Fuel Cells
- Water Electrolyzers
- CO2 Electrolyzers
- Electrosynthesis

By exploring these themes, we aim to foster a comprehensive understanding of electrocatalysis and its potential to revolutionize the energy landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Keywords: electrocatalysis, hydrogen, fuel cells, water electrolysis, CO2 reduction

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.