Recent progress in bimetallic carbide-based electrocatalysts for water splitting

Bimetallic carbides (Bi-TMCs), a new class of transition metal carbides with excellent chemical stability and electrical conductivity, have exhibited great potential as efficient electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water splitting applications. In this review, first, the synthetic methods of bimetallic carbides are systematically summarized. Then, the representative applications of Bi-TMC-based HER and OER electrocatalysts are introduced, from experimental and theoretical aspects. Third, the optimization strategies for improving the HER and OER catalytic activity of Bi-TMCs are summarized, such as optimizing active sites through non-metal and metal-atom doping and increasing active site density by fabricating various nanostructures. Finally, the key challenges and opportunities for Bi-TMC electrocatalysts are also elucidated. Overall, this review aims to provide guidelines for the future development of new and efficient Bi-TMC-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen production through water-splitting technology.