Redox Electrocatalysis of Floating Nanoparticles: Determining Electrocatalytic Properties without the Influence of Solid Supports

Redox electrocatalysis (catalysis of electron-transfer reactions by floating conductive particles) is discussed from the point-of-view of Fermi level equilibration, and an overall theoretical framework is given. Examples of redox electrocatalysis in solution, in bipolar configuration, and at liquid–liquid interfaces are provided, highlighting that bipolar and liquid–liquid interfacial systems allow the study of the electrocatalytic properties of particles without effects from the support, but only liquid–liquid interfaces allow measurement of the electrocatalytic current directly. Additionally, photoinduced redox electrocatalysis will be of interest, for example, to achieve water splitting.