Understanding the Anodic Reconstruction of Prussian Blue Analogs During Oxygen Evolution Reaction

The electrocatalytic performance of Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is strongly influenced by their electronic properties and the structural transformations into active catalysts (ACs). Under anodic conditions, PBA undergoes bulk reconstruction to produce the M(O)OH active phase. This in situ-generated M(O)OH AC exhibited unique electrochemical OER activity compared to the AC produced at the anode by the activation of other precatalysts, such as metal oxides or hydroxides. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the reconstruction process is essential to realize the OER activity of the catalysts. In this review, the reconstruction behavior of PBAs under OER conditions is described, followed by an analysis of the key factors governing anodic reconstruction and strategies to deliberately modulate the reconstruction process. In this context, in situ spectroscopic, microscopic, and analytical techniques, along with theoretical calculations, have been introduced to provide a clear understanding of catalyst reconstruction.