Layered double hydroxides in catalyzing the green hydrogen revolution: advancements and prospects

Abstract

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are emerging as critical materials for advancing the green hydrogen economy due to their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and tunable catalytic properties. Their layered structure allows for compositional flexibility, enabling optimization of active sites for efficient electron transfer. The objective of this review is to comprehend the latest advancements in the production of sustainable LDHs with a particular emphasis on their potential for the efficient electrochemical water splitting process involving both seawater and freshwater, which is essential for the generation of green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source. The strategies of green hydrogen generation and its mechanism have been critically discussed in this review. An overview is provided on the concept of green hydrogen economy involving LDH-based materials. Ongoing research into the design and application of LDHs is anticipated to provide a sustainable avenue for green hydrogen by integrating high catalytic efficiency, resource optimisation, and adaptability to practical conditions such as seawater electrolysis, thus realising their complete potential in decarbonising energy systems.