Construction of amorphous/crystalline heterointerfaces for enhanced electrochemical processes

Amorphous nanomaterials have emerged as potential candidates for energy storage and conversion owing to their amazing physicochemical properties. Recent studies have proved that the manipulation of amorphous nanomaterials can further enhance electrochemical performance. To date, various feasible strategies have been proposed, of which amorphous/crystalline (a-c) heterointerface engineering is deemed an effective approach to break through the inherent activity limitations of electrode materials. The following review discusses recent research progress on a-c heterointerfaces for enhanced electrochemical processes. The general strategies for synthesizing a-c heterojunctions are first summarized. Subsequently, we highlight various advanced applications of a-c heterointerfaces in the field of electrochemistry, including for supercapacitors, batteries, and electrocatalysts. We also elucidate the synergistic mechanism of the crystalline phase and amorphous phase for electrochemical processes. Lastly, we summarize the challenges, present our personal opinions, and offer a critical perspective on the further development of a-c nanomaterials. [Display omitted] •General synthetic strategies and formation mechanisms for amorphous/crystalline heterogeneous interfaces are summarized.•The synergistic mechanism between the crystalline phase and the amorphous phase in electrochemical processes are emphasized.•Current issues and personal perspectives in the construction of amorphous/crystalline heterogeneous interfaces are described.