Author(s)

Hao Liu

Corresponding Author

Hao Liu

Abstract

Hydrogen energy is recognized as a key pillar of future sustainable energy systems due to its high energy density and zero carbon emissions. As the global demand for green hydrogen rises, water electrolysis powered by renewable energy has become one of the most promising methods for clean hydrogen production. However, the reliance on expensive and scarce noble metal catalysts such as platinum greatly limits the scalability of current technologies. In this context, iron-based hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts have attracted significant attention due to their earth abundance, low cost, environmental friendliness, and tunable catalytic properties. This review systematically summarizes recent progress in the design, synthesis, and application of iron-based HER catalysts. Key strategies including nanostructuring, heterointerface engineering, atomic doping, and single-/dual-atom catalysis are discussed, along with theoretical insights and advanced characterization techniques. Representative case studies are analyzed to elucidate structure–activity relationships and industrial feasibility. The challenges in durability, large-scale preparation, and mechanism clarity are also addressed. Finally, the prospects for integrating iron-based catalysts into practical green hydrogen systems are explored, providing guidance for future research and industrial applications.

Keywords

Hydrogen Evolution Reaction, Iron-Based Catalysts, Electrocatalysis