Renewable electricity powered chemical industry at anode: Opportunities, development and perspectives

Electrochemical reduction reactions, including CO2/CO reduction, hydrogen evolution and N2/NOx- reduction, have contributed to lower globe carbon footprint, valorize inert molecules, and convert waste to harmless products. However, the most paired anodic reaction yet remain the oxygen evolution, which is haunted by its high thermodynamic barrier and less profitable product O2. Alternative oxidation reactions with low thermodynamic barrier and economic advantages, have been coupled with various reduction reactions. In this review, recent progresses in alternative oxidation reactions have been summarized and compared, with specific emphasis on reaction selections and corresponding electrocatalysts, future challenges and research directions of renewable electricity powered chemical industry at anode.