Electrocatalysis

Sustainable hydrogen production with self-activating catalysts

Synergistic heterojunction breakthrough: Scientists develop high-efficiency catalyst for green hydrogen production

Biochar’s hidden redox power could transform pollution cleanup and energy recovery

Researchers highlight biochar's ability to outperform conventional materials in driving chemical reactions that break down pollutants and support energy-producing microbial processes. Biochar's intrinsic redox properties enable it to act as an electron shuttle, accelerating reactions.

Engineered biochar unlocks soil’s natural chemistry to break down antibiotic pollution

A new study reveals how an advanced iron-modified biochar can harness the natural chemistry of soils to break down persistent antibiotic contaminants. The biochar activates naturally occurring oxygen in soils to generate highly reactive hydroxyl radicals, enabling the in situ degradation of contaminants without external chemical inputs.

"Bulky" molecular shields: A new strategy to supercharge single-atom catalysts for zinc-air batteries

Researchers develop a novel 'steric hindrance' strategy to boost the performance of single-atom catalysts in oxygen reduction reactions. The approach uses metalloporphyrins with bulky groups to prevent atomic agglomeration and ensure high efficiency.

NSF CAREER Award supports research to create opportunity from nitrate pollution

A University of Virginia researcher is developing an alternative method to remove nitrate from wastewater by converting it into valuable chemical products. The project uses electrocatalysis and modulation excitation spectroscopy to optimize the conversion process, aiming to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

Turning plant waste into power: A structural and chemical leap for supercapacitor technology

Researchers from Southeast University and Nanjing Normal University create supercapacitor technology using plant waste, enabling rapid-charging energy storage at 4.0 volts. The innovative approach combines a custom electrode with a specialized electrolyte to stabilize the system.

Scientists design metal-enhanced biochar to boost clean hydrogen production from agricultural waste

Researchers engineered a dual metal modified biochar composite to enhance microbial electrochemical interactions and increase hydrogen yield. The study demonstrates the potential of biochar as an efficient electron mediator in light driven fermentation systems.

Turning sewage waste into a smart sensor for tracking antibiotic pollution

Researchers developed a low-cost, eco-friendly sensor using biochar from sewage treatment plant sludge to detect trace levels of trimethoprim in water and pharmaceutical samples. The device offers a sustainable way to monitor antibiotic pollution.

AI-driven active learning discovers long-lasting acidic OER catalyst with 625-hour durability

Researchers have introduced a spatial-adaptive active-learning workflow to accelerate search for highly durable OER catalysts. The new method optimizes two objectives sequentially within a unified framework, identifying a Cu-RuO2 catalyst with exceptional performance and long-term stability.

Capturing interfacial species: EC-SERS reveals hidden reaction mechanisms

In situ EC-SERS captures fingerprint vibrational signals of trace and transient interfacial species under operational conditions. This technique reveals how electrocatalyst properties and interfacial environments govern fuel cell, water electrolysis, and CO2RR related reactions.

For green energy: Exposing just one active site boosts catalytic activity

Researchers at Tohoku University and Indian Institute of Technology Indore developed a Cu14 nanocluster with a single exposed Cu site, exhibiting high ammonia selectivity and production rate. The findings support the creation of efficient metal nanocluster catalysts for green energy production.

Lead-acid battery inspired catalyst design: Pb doped RuIrOx for efficient and durable acidic oxygen evolution in proton exchange membrane electrolyzers at 3 A/cm2

Researchers developed a novel lead-doped ruthenium-iridium oxide catalyst for oxygen evolution reactions in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers, surpassing commercial IrO₂ and RuO₂ electrodes. The catalyst enables efficient and durable operation at high current densities, reducing precious metal consumption.

Harnessing seawater ions to power next-generation seawater electrocatalysis

Researchers have discovered that certain seawater ions can be intentionally utilized to enhance electrochemical performance, rather than hindering it. This involves carefully designing catalysts and electrolytes to mitigate the negative effects of these ions while maximizing their benefits.

How unlocking ‘sticky’ chemistry may lead to better, cleaner fuels

A new study reveals that the strength of carbon monoxide adsorption energy relies on a mix of reaction factors, including catalyst material and voltage. This insight can guide the design of more efficient catalysts to convert CO2 into useful fuels like methanol and ethanol.

Inexpensive multifunctional composite paves the way to a circular economy

Researchers at Shinshu University developed a novel copper-cobalt oxide composite that excels in energy storage, environmental remediation and water splitting. The material boasts high specific capacitance, exceptional stability and numerous active catalytic sites, making it a promising low-cost alternative to conventional catalysts.

New study shows biochar’s electrical properties can influence rice field methane emissions

Researchers found that highly conductive biochar produces up to 69% more methane in rice soils due to faster electron transfer. The study highlights the importance of biochar's physical properties in determining its impact on greenhouse gas emissions.

SNU materials science and engineering team identifies reconstruction mechanism of copper alloy catalysts for CO₂ conversion

Researchers identified reconstruction mechanism of copper alloy catalysts during electrochemical CO₂ conversion reactions. The findings provide a 'design map' for understanding and predicting surface reconstruction, enabling the design of dynamic catalysts that adapt during operation.

From pollution to fuel: Advances in electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 and CO to propanol

Converting waste carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) into propanol offers a promising strategy for a sustainable energy future. Propanol has high energy density and is used in fuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, making it an attractive target for green synthesis.

Fullerene's role as an efficient, metal-free catalyst for clean energy

Researchers at Tohoku University found that C60 fullerene can serve as an active catalytic site for CO2 electroreduction, improving the efficiency of reactions like hydrogen evolution and carbon dioxide reduction. The discovery opens new possibilities for designing efficient, metal-free catalysts to combat climate change.

Chemical fermentation-induced porous bio-carbon with embedded Ni–Fe alloy for ultra-efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysis

Researchers introduce a novel electrocatalyst design strategy using chemical fermentation, creating a multilevel porous carbon architecture embedded with Ni–Fe alloy nanoparticles. This approach achieves ultra-efficient oxygen evolution reaction performance, with a record-low overpotential of 165 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

Catalyst cuts energy use in CO₂-to-ethylene conversion

A new copper-based catalyst with added cobalt dopants significantly reduces energy consumption in converting CO₂ to ethylene. The process delivers high ethylene output with over 25% energy efficiency and remains stable over long periods.

Systematic review on controlled synthesis of metal-based Janus nanostructures for tandem electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction

Researchers have developed metal-based Janus nanostructures that boost CO2 reduction via tandem electrocatalysis. These structures exhibit unique properties and mechanisms, enabling the generation of single-carbon and multi-carbon products.

Amorphous Ni-Fe Oxide: A high-performance, low-cost OER electrocatalyst for AEMWEs

Researchers developed amorphous Ni-Fe mixed oxides using sol-gel method to enhance oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity and operational durability in anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers (AEMWEs). The material demonstrated optimal OER performance, achieving a low overpotential of 291 mV and remarkable stability.

Advancing electrocatalyst discovery through the lens of data science

A recent article reviews the integration of data science into electrocatalysis, accelerating the design of high-performance catalysts. The combination of low-dimensional and high-dimensional analytics is providing deeper insights into structure-property relationships.

Tandem design on electrocatalysts and reactors for electrochemical CO2 reduction

The review elucidates fundamental principles of tandem catalysis, presenting design strategies for multifunctional catalysts or cascade reactors. It analyzes cutting-edge advancements in multiscale tandem methodologies, including compositional engineering and hydrodynamic modulation.

Efficiently and sustainably killing bacteria

A new electrocatalytic sterilization method has been introduced using copper oxide nanowires to produce highly alkaline microenvironments that efficiently kill bacteria. Most conventional disinfection methods have disadvantages such as harmful by-products and high energy consumption.

Self-optimizing catalysts facilitate water-splitting for the green production of hydrogen

Researchers have developed cost-effective and efficient water-splitting catalysts using cobalt and tungsten, which surprisingly increase in performance over time. The unique self-optimization process involves changes in the chemical nature of the catalyzing oxide, leading to improved activity and reduced overpotentials.

Mizzou scientists develop a method that could lower medicine costs and contribute to cleaner energy and sustainability

Researchers have developed a novel electrochemistry approach to build new molecules using micelles from naturally occurring amino acids and coconut oil. This breakthrough method could reduce the cost of making medicines by combining solvents, electrolytes, and reaction boosters into one simple tool.

Researchers uncover key insights into CO₂ reduction using SnO-based electrocatalysts

A study by the Advanced Institute for Materials Research found that tin monoxide (SnO) electrocatalysts can produce both formic acid and carbon monoxide in significant amounts. The research team identified key structural changes that influence product distribution, providing insights into optimizing electrocatalyst performance.

Bismuth-based catalysts: Promising candidates for electrochemical CO2 reduction to formate

Recent developments in bismuth-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction to formate highlight their potential as a promising strategy. Advances include the use of innovative synthesis techniques and engineering to attain high cathodic current densities.

Hetero-metal doping enables silver-based bimetallic clusters for electrocatalytic urea synthesis

Researchers developed two silver-based bimetallic clusters that increase Faradaic efficiency and yield of urea through charge polarization modulation. Ag14Pd outperforms Ag13Au5 in NO3RR, while Ag13Au5 excels in CO2RR with higher urea formation rates.

Why weak-binding M-N-C catalysts defy expectations in oxygen reduction reactions

Researchers uncover a novel reaction pathway in weak-binding metal-nitrogen-carbon single-atom catalysts, contradicting the traditional Sabatier principle. This discovery offers new insights into their exceptional catalytic behavior.

Nanoscale tin catalyst discovery paves the way for sustainable CO2 conversion

Researchers developed a sustainable catalyst converting CO2 into valuable products, increasing activity during use. The discovery offers a blueprint for designing next-generation electrocatalysts with high selectivity and stability.

Inorganic and biocatalysts work together to reduce CO-2

Researchers have successfully combined electrocatalysis and biocatalysis to produce methanol from carbon dioxide. The hybrid process uses enzymes to catalyze the final steps, achieving high selectivity and efficiency.

Ligand-engineered copper nanoclusters could help combat CO₂ emissions

A breakthrough in electrochemical CO2 reduction processes has been achieved through ligand engineering of copper nanoclusters. The study reveals that variations in intercluster interactions significantly impact the stability and selectivity of these nanoclusters, leading to more efficient carbon conversion technologies.

Less is more: Why an economical Iridium catalyst works so well

Researchers at HZB developed a new P2X catalyst requiring less iridium than commercial materials, showing remarkable stability and different mechanisms for oxygen evolution. The study provides valuable information about catalyst performance and stability.

Analyzing the structure-performance relationships of electrocatalysts

The study proposes a strategy to use spinel oxides, particularly those involving rare-earth cerium substitution, to improve the oxygen evolution reaction. The team found that adding Ce promotes the lattice oxygen pathway, leading to highly active spinel oxide catalysts for electrochemical reactions.

Novel magnetic field integration enhances green hydrogen peroxide production

Researchers developed a novel catalyst with integrated magnetic field, achieving 90% H2O2 production efficiency and significantly enhancing the reaction's performance. The new approach requires minimal amounts of magnetic materials, making it safer and more practical for large-scale applications.

Novel electro-biodiesel a more efficient, cleaner alternative to existing alternatives

Researchers have developed a novel electro-biodiesel process that is 45 times more efficient than traditional biodiesel production, using 45 times less land. The process converts CO2 into biocompatible intermediates and lipids, resulting in negative emissions and potential for widespread adoption.

Carbon recycling instead of plastic trash

A German research team has developed an electrocatalytic method for efficient degradation of polystyrene plastic waste, producing monomeric benzoyl products and short polymer chains. The process uses an inexpensive iron catalyst and can be powered by solar panels, combining recycling with green hydrogen production.

Cobalt-copper tandem converts carbon dioxide to ethanol

A team of scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz has developed an electrocatalytic conversion technique that converts carbon dioxide into ethanol. The cobalt-copper tandem system achieves selective conversion with an 80% yield, opening up a sustainable method for chemical applications and food conservation.

Layered high-entropy sulfides: Boosting electrocatalytic performance for hydrogen evolution reaction by cocktail effects

The study demonstrates the exceptional efficiency of layered high-entropy sulfides in boosting electrocatalytic performance for hydrogen evolution reaction. The introduction of molybdenum into the composition creates a unique layered structure that increases the material's surface area and enhances its catalytic efficiency.

Recent advances in cation effects for electrocatalytic reduction reactions

Researchers have discovered various ways to optimize electrocatalytic reduction reactions by tuning the type and concentration of cations, improving their activity, selectivity, and efficiency. The study provides a comprehensive overview of cation effects on catalytic reduction reactions, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.

New electrocatalytic strategy enables ultrafast-charging lithium-ion battery

Researchers developed a novel electrocatalytic strategy for solid-state lithium-ion batteries, overcoming the limitation of liquid-solid interfaces. The new approach enhances reaction dynamics and creates highly active sites, leading to impressive ultrafast-charging performance.

Exploring ternary metal sulfides as electrocatalyst for carbon dioxide reduction reactions

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel screening methodology using machine learning to identify key design guidelines for ternary metal sulfide electrocatalysts. Focusing on crystal structure leads to better results, overcoming challenges in material properties and electrochemical performance analysis.

The mechanisms behind cobalt x-ide electrocatalysts

Researchers discovered Co3O4 as the most effective cobalt oxide electrocatalyst for quinoline hydrogenation, achieving high conversion rates under ambient conditions. This study advances understanding of catalytic mechanisms in the process, which has significant implications for pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries.

Early Career Award to Texas A&M chemical engineer honors research in greener ammonia production

Dr. Abdoulaye Djire, a Texas A&M chemical engineer, has received the Army Research Office Early Career Award for his research on electrochemical ammonia production. His project aims to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly methods for producing ammonia using 2D nanostructured nitride MXenes.

New technology provides electrifying insights into how catalysts work at the atomic level

Researchers developed a technique to study electrochemical processes at the atomic level, revealing unexpected transformations in a popular copper catalyst. The technique, called polymer liquid cell (PLC), enables scientists to observe composition changes during reactions in real time.

Large language model in electrocatalysis

Researchers used large language models to overcome limitations of traditional methods in electrocatalysis. These models enable the integration of various data sources, accelerating catalyst design and reaction mechanism research.

Building-kit catalyst

A metal-free organic framework catalyst has been developed for the electrocatalytic production of ethylene from carbon dioxide. The catalyst, based on a nitrogen-containing covalent organic framework (COF), demonstrated high selectivity and performance for the production of ethylene.

Researchers unlock vital insights into metal-nitrogen-carbon catalysts' reaction mechanism

A team of researchers has gained new understanding of metal-nitrogen-carbon (M-N-C) catalysts, crucial for the development of low-cost and efficient hydrogen generation. By analyzing twelve distinct M-N-C configurations, they discovered that potential zero charge and solvation effects play a pivotal role in pH-dependent activities.

Chainmail catalysts: Carbon-encapsulated FeNi alloys for enhanced oxygen electrocatalysis

Researchers have developed chainmail catalysts with enhanced oxygen electrocatalysis using FeNi alloys and carbon encapsulation. The FeNi@NC catalyst demonstrates exceptional performance in alkaline media, operating reliably at high power density with extended lifespan.

The Clues for Cleaner Water

Researchers at Pitt and Drexel have discovered that electrocatalysts can promote chemical reactions that generate ozone in water through corrosion and solution phase reactions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient and sustainable electrochemical ozone production technologies.

Researchers achieve electrosynthesis via superwetting organic-solid-water interfaces

Chinese scientists developed a new three-phase OSW electrocatalytic system for efficient production of high-purity benzaldehyde, achieving 97% Faradaic efficiency and 91.7% purity without post-purification processes. The system uses clean energy and water resources, simplifying product separation and purification.

Operando spectroscopy provides a window on water oxidation

Researchers used operando spectroscopy to study the oxygen evolution reaction in iridium oxide catalysts. The team found that binding of reaction intermediates to the electrode was controlled by long-range interactions between the intermediates and the solution, which depended on pH.

Magnetic fields boost clean energy

EPFL researchers have developed a novel approach to boost electrocatalysis using magnetic fields, enhancing the movement of reactants and improving reaction efficiency. This innovation has significant potential to revolutionize energy conversion technologies and increase sustainable fuel production, mitigating climate change.

Investigating the surface extraction of platinum catalysts in alkaline media

The study elucidates the role of interfacial cations in oxide formation on Pt surfaces, suggesting that selecting optimal cations can control surface oxidation and improve electrode durability. This finding is crucial for developing high-performance and stable Pt electrocatalysts for next-generation electrochemical devices.

Fast-charging lithium-sulphur batteries on the horizon

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new nanocomposite electrocatalyst that enables lithium-sulphur batteries to achieve full charge/discharge in less than five minutes. This breakthrough has significant implications for high-performance battery systems and energy storage technologies.

Boston College researchers use electrocatalysis for site-specific protein modification

A new tool using electrocatalysis enables precise modification of site-specifically incorporated 5-hydroxytryptophan residues on many different proteins, including full-length therapeutic antibodies. The eCLIC method has potential applications in developing novel biotherapeutics and protein-based research tools.