Recent Advancement on Preparation and Electrochemical Performance Study of Metal-based Porous Electrodes

With the rapid growth of renewable energy and electrochemical energy storage and conversion technologies, the need for high-performance electrode materials is growing increasingly strong. Because of their large specific surface area, tunable three-dimensional pore structure, and effective mass transfer characteristics, porous electrodes are now essential for improving the performance of electrochemical energy devices. However, there are still many fundamental obstacles in the way of the development of porous electrodes: First, the stability of microstructures during preparation and cycling processes; second, the complex fabrication processes, high costs, and difficulties in large-scale production resulting from intricate pore structures; third, uneven reactions and reduced utilization efficiency caused by internally constrained transport kinetics; fourth, the multi-parameter coupling that makes performance optimization and precise characterization extremely difficult. Recent advancements in the field's study are methodically summarized in this overview. It initially discusses preparation methods for metal-based porous electrodes using standard metal salt systems, such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, copper, iron, and zinc, as precursors. Second, it analyzes the microstructural properties and electrochemical performance of metal-based porous electrodes created through diverse preparation processes. Finally, it discusses future research trends toward green, low-cost preparation technologies, precise creation of multi-level pore structures, and the application of improved in-situ characterization tools to disclose structural evolution principles during working conditions. This will encourage the practical use of next-generation metal-based porous electrodes that are high-performing, long-lasting, and inexpensive.