Introduction

The surging energy demand and increased fossil fuel consumption have led to severe environmental issues, such as global warming, ecosystem destruction, and air pollution. Addressing these challenges necessitates the exploration of low-cost, green, and clean renewable energy conversion and storage technologies. Central to these technologies is electrocatalysis, which enhances energy conversion efficiency by accelerating electrochemical reactions. This book investigates the role of functional materials in electrocatalysis, emphasizing their potential as cost-effective and widely accessible sustainable energy solutions compared to traditional noble metals. It focuses on four types of functional materials: metal-based materials, metallic compounds, carbon-based materials, and porous materials, examining how their geometric and electronic structures influence catalytic performance. By providing a comprehensive overview of functional materials in electrocatalytic energy conversion, this book aims to advance the field and contribute to the transition toward sustainable energy, offering insights for future research and applications.