A study published in Nature Communications presents a novel approach to extend the lifespan of electrodes in harsh electrolysis conditions, such as high current densities, acidic environments, and impure water sources. The research team developed an alternating electrolysis method that enables regular and prompt repair/maintenance of electrodes while simultaneously allowing bubble evolution. This method significantly improves electrode lifespan by leveraging the synergistic effects of Fe group elemental ions and alkali metal cations, particularly the unique combination of Co²⁺ and Na⁺. A commercial Ni foam electrode, which typically dissolves within 2 hours under conventional electrolysis conditions, was able to sustain ampere-level current densities for 93.8 hours in an acidic solution under this alternating electrolysis approach. The study highlights the potential of alternating electrolysis to prolong electrolysis by repeated deposition-dissolution processes. The research team also explored the mechanisms behind the enhanced performance, revealing that the synergistic interaction between Co²⁺ and Na⁺ facilitates the formation of a uniform protective coating on the electrode. This coating helps protect the electrode from rapid dissolution in acidic environments. Theoretical calculations further support these findings, showing that the higher diffusion ability of hydrated Na⁺, moderate interaction between Na⁺ and Co, and suitable adsorption strength of Co on Ni (111) contribute to the uniform deposition of Co. The study also demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach in seawater, where the Ni foam electrode was able to sustain electrolysis for over 1100 seconds, significantly longer than in conventional electrolysis conditions. The research team also tested various combinations of ions, finding that the Co²⁺-Na⁺ combination provided the best results. The study concludes that the alternating electrolysis approach has significant potential for practical applications in harsh electrolysis conditions, particularly as renewable energy sources become more widespread and electricity costs decrease. The research team's findings suggest that this approach could be a key strategy for developing more sustainable and efficient electrolysis systems in the future.A study published in Nature Communications presents a novel approach to extend the lifespan of electrodes in harsh electrolysis conditions, such as high current densities, acidic environments, and impure water sources. The research team developed an alternating electrolysis method that enables regular and prompt repair/maintenance of electrodes while simultaneously allowing bubble evolution. This method significantly improves electrode lifespan by leveraging the synergistic effects of Fe group elemental ions and alkali metal cations, particularly the unique combination of Co²⁺ and Na⁺. A commercial Ni foam electrode, which typically dissolves within 2 hours under conventional electrolysis conditions, was able to sustain ampere-level current densities for 93.8 hours in an acidic solution under this alternating electrolysis approach. The study highlights the potential of alternating electrolysis to prolong electrolysis by repeated deposition-dissolution processes. The research team also explored the mechanisms behind the enhanced performance, revealing that the synergistic interaction between Co²⁺ and Na⁺ facilitates the formation of a uniform protective coating on the electrode. This coating helps protect the electrode from rapid dissolution in acidic environments. Theoretical calculations further support these findings, showing that the higher diffusion ability of hydrated Na⁺, moderate interaction between Na⁺ and Co, and suitable adsorption strength of Co on Ni (111) contribute to the uniform deposition of Co. The study also demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach in seawater, where the Ni foam electrode was able to sustain electrolysis for over 1100 seconds, significantly longer than in conventional electrolysis conditions. The research team also tested various combinations of ions, finding that the Co²⁺-Na⁺ combination provided the best results. The study concludes that the alternating electrolysis approach has significant potential for practical applications in harsh electrolysis conditions, particularly as renewable energy sources become more widespread and electricity costs decrease. The research team's findings suggest that this approach could be a key strategy for developing more sustainable and efficient electrolysis systems in the future.