Support Effects in Electrocatalysis and Their Synchrotron Radiation-Based Characterizations

Electrocatalysis is recognized as a significant process for energy conversion. In fact, numerous factors, including the variable electronic structure of electrocatalysts, rich intermediates, and mutable active phases, have important but complex influences on the catalytic process. In addition, the support of electrocatalysts is considered as one of key factors that correlate to the final catalytic performance. In this Perspective, some recent advances regarding the support effects in electrocatalysis are briefly summarized. Synchrotron radiation-based characterizations are introduced to reveal the support-induced modulation in electrocatalysts. Recent in situ/operando studies are emphasized for better understanding of the real interaction between catalysts and support, together with visualizing the dynamic catalytic process. Some perspectives are proposed that may accelerate more attention being given to the support’s optimization for future practical applications.