Polymer-derived ceramics for electrocatalytic energy conversion reactions

Polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) are being actively explored in various fields today because of their unique physiochemical properties. Very recent advances in the use of PDCs in energy storage technologies (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors) have motivated researchers to explore the possibilities of PDCs as electrocatalysts for use in energy conversion reactions. Impressively, the tunable functional properties, especially the electrical properties, of PDCs have helped to break through this “bottleneck” and enabled them to become promising materials for use in electrocatalytic conversion. This review presents an in-time summary of the progress in the development of PDCs for electrochemical energy conversion. First, a general introduction to the preparation of PDCs is provided. Later, the factors (e.g., chemical stability, electron conductivity) most closely related to electrocatalytic performance are discussed. Specifically, the parameters that affect the electron conductivity of PDCs are enumerated to delve into advanced strategies for achieving effective electrocatalysts. The relevant electrocatalytic conversion reactions (e.g., hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, and oxygen reduction reaction) and utilization of PDCs in these reactions are also comprehensively introduced. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities for PDC materials in the field of electrochemical energy conversion are summarized.