elektrokatalyzátor
Elektrokatalyzátor is a substance that accelerates an electrochemical reaction when it is present but not consumed by the reaction. It is used to increase the rate of both oxidation and reduction reactions at an electrode surface. Essentially, an elektrokatalyzátor lowers the activation energy required for the electron transfer process. These materials are crucial for the efficiency and feasibility of many electrochemical technologies. Common examples of elektrokatalyzátory include noble metals like platinum, palladium, and ruthenium, as well as various metal oxides and sulfides. The choice of elektrokatalyzátor depends heavily on the specific electrochemical reaction being catalyzed. For instance, platinum is widely used in fuel cells for the oxygen reduction reaction, while transition metal oxides are employed in water splitting. The development of new and improved elektrokatalyzátory is a significant area of research, aiming to reduce costs, enhance performance, and improve the sustainability of electrochemical processes. Factors such as surface area, electronic conductivity, and chemical stability are important considerations when designing or selecting an elektrokatalyzátor.