Unlocking the potential of high entropy alloys in Electrocatalytic reactions: A review

• Published in: Journal of electroanalytical chemistry (Lausanne, Switzerland) Vol. 985; p. 119083
• Main Authors: Xiang, Qiang, Qi, Dongming, Feng, Jiawei, Du, Wei, Meng, Yanshuang, Zhu, Fuliang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 15.05.2025
• Subjects: Electrocatalysts; Environmental sustainability; High entropy alloys; Performance evaluation; Synthesis and structure; High entropy alloys; Performance evaluation; Synthesis and structure; Environmental sustainability; Electrocatalysts
• ISSN: 1572-6657
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2025.119083

High entropy alloys (HEAs) possess considerable catalytic potential, which can be attributed to their distinctive electronic structure and adaptable composition. This review begins with an exposition of the definition and structure of HEAs, followed by an examination of the impact of their properties and structure on the electrocatalytic mechanism. Subsequently, the design and preparation of HEAs for electrocatalysis is reviewed, and the characterization and performance evaluation of HEAs for electrocatalysis are presented. The analysis of the performance of HEAs in electrocatalytic hydrogen precipitation, oxygen precipitation, oxygen reduction, carbon dioxide reduction, nitrogen reduction, methanol oxidation and formic acid oxidation reactions is presented to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the catalytic capabilities of HEAs in diverse catalytic reactions. The paper concludes with the proposal of future directions for HEAs, including the innovation of synthesis routes, the in-depth study of structure-property relationships, the expansion of application areas, environmental protection, and sustainability. This review offers a comprehensive overview of HEAs in electrocatalysis, thereby facilitating a profound comprehension of the subject. •Reviews structural features, tunable compositions, and electrocatalytic roles across diverse reactions.•Explores four key effects (entropy, lattice distortion, slow diffusion, cocktail) driving catalytic enhancement.•Details synthesis strategies, characterization methods, and performance optimization for efficient catalysts.•Envisions sustainable synthesis, structure-property insights, and expanded applications in green energy.