Prospects and Promises in Two-Electron Water Oxidation for Hydrogen Peroxide Generation

Abstract

A key oxidizing agent for the chemical industry, wastewater treatment, and semiconductor development is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Electrochemical (EC) and photoelectrochemical (PEC) production of H(2)O(2)syntheses have been studied as promising alternatives to the unsustainable anthraquinone oxidation process and the H-2 and O-2 direct gas synthesis route. While cathodic O-2 reduction to produce H(2)O(2 )draws more extensive attention than anodic water oxidation due to the higher obtained indicator of Faraday efficiency and production rate of H2O2, however, in the long term, using water as a raw material for water oxidation is a desirable procedure for the sustainable development of H(2)O(2 )production. To inspire innovative ideas for boosting the H(2)O(2 )yield in photo/electrocatalysis, we review recent advancements in EC/PEC H(2)O(2 )production from experimental and computational points of view. The fundamental mechanism of the process, rational design of the electrode, and advanced engineering strategies for enhancement of H(2)O(2)production via a two-electron water oxidation reaction (2e(-) WOR) are thoroughly summarized. Furthermore, we discuss the hindrances and challenges of 2e- WOR, including all intermediates and competing reaction routes, integrate tandem device development, and the H(2)O(2)degradation issues for better addressing. 2e(-) WOR enables more excellent H(2)O(2 )production rates with optimal efficiency.