Titanium dioxide nanomaterials in electrocatalysis for energy

Over the last two decades, researchers have found many strategies to obtain high surface area nanostructured titanium dioxide. These nanostructures have recently found application as supports for the fabrication of electrodes for electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices. The properties that make titanium dioxide appealing for these applications are: i) stability in a variety of conditions relevant to electrocatalysis, ii) electronic conductivity, iii) synergistic effects with metal catalysts. The work splits TiO2 nanomaterials into two classes: i) powders and ii) embedded nanoarchitectures (e.g. titania nanotubes on titanium support). We give an overview of the latest applications, with a special emphasis on fuel cells, electrolysis, and carbon dioxide electro-reduction. We conclude with a list of the research needs that, in the opinion of the authors, will support the exploration and consolidation of the use of titania in electrocatalysis for energy.