Comparison and evaluation of electrocatalytic materials in electrochemical hydrogen production

The kinetic studies on the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, the proposed mechanisms and correlations between electrochemical and other physicochemical parameters are briefly discussed. A deeper consideration is given to the studies carried out in experimental conditions suitable for the practical production of hydrogen and attempts made at a comparison of electrocatalytic materials are evaluated. A fairly general agreement exists about the experimental conditions and a few materials have shown the more promising behavior; some further light on the reaction mechanism and long-term reliability of these materials can be obtained with the use of nonelectrochemical techniques. Finally, the steam electrolysis is also examined and a parameter apt to evaluate the efficiency of cathodic materials is proposed. © 1987.