Recently, magnetic fields have been regarded as an effective tool to modify magnetic domain structure and change the spin multiplicity of electrons during the electrocatalysis process. In this review, we systematically summarize the recent development of spin regulation induced by the magnetic field in electrocatalysis. Finally, we point out the challenges and perspectives in spin-catalysis.

Abstract

The utilization of a magnetic field to manipulate spin states has emerged as a novel approach to enhance efficiency in electrocatalytic reactions, distinguishing from traditional strategies that focus on tuning activation energy barriers. Currently, this approach is specifically tailored to reactions where spin states change during the catalytic process, such as the oxidation of singlet H₂O to triplet O₂. In the magnetically enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) procedure, the parallel spin alignment on the ferromagnetic catalyst was induced by the external magnetic field, facilitating the triplet O−O bonding, which is the rate limiting step in OER. This review centers on recent advancements in harnessing external magnetic fields to enhance OER performance, delving into mechanistic approaches for this magnetic promotion. Additionally, we provide a summary of magnetic field application in other electrocatalytic reactions, including oxygen reduction, methanol oxidation, and CO₂ reduction.