Operando Methods for Mechanistic Studies of Energy Systems

Prof. Héctor D. Abruña

Title: Operando methods for mechanistic studies of energy systems.
When: 12:00 CET, Tuesday, June 6th, 2023.
Place: Sala de Grados, Module 8, Faculty of Sciences, Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM).
Speaker: Prof. Héctor D. Abruña, Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Center for Alkaline Based Energy Solutions (CABES), Energy Materials Center at Cornell (emc2 ) and Abruña Energy Initiative, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York (USA).

This presentation will deal with the use of operando methods for mechanistic studies energy systems with emphasis on fuel cells and battery materials and technologies. The presentation will begin with a brief overview of the methods employed with emphasis on the use of X-ray based methods, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) under active potential control, confocal Raman spectroscopy and microscopy and DEMS (differential electrochemical mass spectrometry) coupled with SEIRAS (surface enhanced infra-red absorption spectroscopy). The utility of these methods will be illustrated by case studies focusing on non-precious metal electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media, Li/S batteries the reduction of carbon dioxide and the oxidation of ethanol. The presentation will conclude with an assessment of future directions.