Electrochemiluminescence Imaging for In Situ Electrocatalysis Characterization: Recent Progress and Mechanistic Insights

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) imaging has emerged as a powerful optical microscopy technique due to its high sensitivity and exceptional spatiotemporal resolution. When integrated with electrocatalysis, ECL imaging serves as a promising in situ tool for characterizing catalytic processes. In this Perspective, we first introduce the signal transduction principles of ECL imaging tailored for electrocatalysis. Subsequently, we systematically summarize its diverse applications, ranging from the real-time monitoring of catalytic interfaces and high-throughput screening of single catalysts to the evaluation of subparticle heterogeneity. Notably, we also discuss how ECL imaging provides refined mechanistic insights into catalytic activity, surpassing the capabilities of traditional methods. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are discussed, aiming to provide a roadmap for the further development of ECL imaging in uncovering complex catalytic mechanisms.