Interface engineering for enhanced OER performance of nickel–based sulfide electrocatalysts: strategies, mechanisms, and perspectives

The intrinsic sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) remains a primary obstacle to the efficiency of sustainable energy conversion technologies. Interface engineering has emerged as a decisive strategy to bypass these kinetic limitations by precisely modulating the electronic environment of electrocatalysts. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in interface engineering for nickel–based sulfide OER catalysts. We systematically summarize key regulatory interface engineering strategies, including heteroatom doping, heterojunction construction, defect engineering, and carrier material interfacial effects. Beyond surface morphology, we delve into the intrinsic mechanisms–specifically how interfacial charge redistribution and electronic coupling optimize the adsorption Gibbs free energy of OER intermediates. Furthermore, the dynamic surface reconstruction of sulfides under operative conditions and its impact on real active sites are critically discussed. Finally, we highlight current challenges and propose future directions for the rational design of high–performance interfacial catalysts. This work serves as a fundamental guide for bridging the gap between interfacial microstructures and macro–catalytic efficiency, and is of great significance for facilitating the rapid advancement of clean energy technologies and upgrading of the global energy transition.