Electrochemical Reactions

Highly sensitive SWCNT-based pyroelectric phototransistors enable broadband room-temperature infrared detection

Researchers have developed a detector that delivers high sensitivity while operating at ordinary room temperature, using carbon nanotubes and a pyroelectric lithium niobate crystal. The device surpasses earlier graphene-based detectors by several orders of magnitude and offers a broad spectral range without cryogenic cooling.

SwRI, SMU collaborate to advance solid-state batteries

Researchers will address the unstable interface between lithium metal anode and solid electrolyte by engineering ultra-thin films to reduce degradation and resistance. The goal is to improve reliability and stability of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles, enabling faster charging and greater energy storage potential.

Biochar’s hidden electron power could unlock cleaner pollution control and energy recovery

A new review highlights the potential of biochar's intrinsic redox properties to enhance pollutant degradation, microbial processes, and energy recovery. Biochar can act like an electron shuttle or buffer, transferring electrons more efficiently than highly conductive materials in stressed environments.

Iron-modified biochar turns soil oxygen into a cleaner for antibiotic pollution

A new iron-modified biochar catalyst activates natural oxygen and iron cycling in farmland soil, breaking down sulfamethoxazole at a 4.2-fold increase under laboratory conditions. The material also achieved strong pollutant removal, with degradation reaching 81.2% under favorable soil moisture conditions.

Magnetic field during catalyst synthesis triples ammonia yield

Applying a magnetic field during catalyst synthesis triples the ammonia yield, making catalytically active sites more accessible. The study demonstrates a scalable strategy for developing next-generation electrocatalysts for efficient and sustainable chemical production.

Addition of phosphonate groups boosts performance of organic electrochemical transistors

Researchers introduce phosphonate ester groups into conductive polymer films to balance electronic charge transport and ion transport, improving OECT performance. The approach enables precise tuning of polymer properties without redesigning monomers.

Interfacial electrocatalyst turns biomass into biodegradable plastic precursor at low voltage with record selectivity

Researchers developed a Pt–CuOx interfacial catalyst that converts HMF to FDCA at significantly lower voltages, achieving 99.1% FDCA selectivity and 93.8% yield. The optimized catalyst demonstrated excellent durability, maintaining over 90% selectivity for more than 110 hours.

Hanyang University researchers identify 2.5 nanometers as the minimum effective coating thickness for longer-lasting solid-state EV batteries

Better batteries begin with optimized slurry processing

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.

A clear view to better batteries

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed an operando microscopy platform to study lithium plating in batteries. The platform revealed the conditions under which plating occurs, allowing for the development of performance maps to optimize fast-charging protocols and enhance battery performance.

Chemistry-powered “breathing” membrane opens and closes tiny pores on its own

Researchers at The University of Osaka developed a solid-state analogue that enables the formation of subnanometer pores approaching biological ion-channel dimensions. The team demonstrated the opening and closing process hundreds of times, with spikes in current consistent with biological channels.

Illinois Tech researcher finds where lithium ions reside in new solid-state electrolyte that could lead to improved batteries

Researchers at Illinois Tech developed a new material with high ionic conductivity and low activation energy, enabling the efficient storage and release of energy. The material's unique structure allows lithium ions to move freely, even at cold temperatures, making it promising for applications in electric vehicles and energy storage.

Rare-Earth Europium substitution allows for more control over CO₂-to-fuel conversion

Researchers at AIMR discovered that Europium substitution in Cu2O catalysts allows for selective control of electrochemical CO2 reduction products. By leveraging the Eu3+/Eu2+ redox couple, they demonstrated how subtle changes in electronic structure can favor either C-C coupling or deep hydrogenation.

Peat as a sustainable precursor for fuel cell catalyst materials

Researchers discovered that peat-based iron-nitrogen-carbon catalysts exhibit exceptional efficiency and selectivity in oxygen reduction reactions. The microstructure of these catalysts plays a crucial role in promoting the desired electrochemical reactions.

Scientists unveil mechanism behind greener ammonia production

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University reveal how copper particles create in mid-reaction, converting nitrite ions to ammonia. This insight promises leaps forward in developing new industrial chemistry for greener ammonia production.

Scientists unlock new energy potential in iron-based materials

Researchers have discovered a way to increase the energy state of iron in materials, enabling the creation of higher-voltage batteries. The breakthrough could also aid the development of superconductors and magnetism applications.

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.

Manganese’s resilience is key to its use as a catalyst

Researchers discovered manganese's unique ability to act as a catalyst when electrical voltage fluctuates, making it suitable for applications like wind and solar energy. Manganese's regeneration under the Guyard reaction enables its use over repeated cycles, crucial for sustainable reactions.

Novel unsymmetrical molecule produces perfect photocatalyst potential

Researchers at The University of Osaka have invented a novel, unsymmetrical hetero[8]circulene molecule with unique properties that make it a potent organic photocatalyst. The molecule can speed up chemical reactions triggered by light, paving the way for sustainable and inexpensive material creation.

Electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals: Challenges from laboratory research to industrial application

Researchers explore electrochemical synthesis of value-added chemicals, highlighting challenges and opportunities for industrial application. The technology enables efficient conversion of natural raw materials into high-quality products under mild conditions, offering sustainable solutions for renewable energy utilization.

Solid-state batteries charge faster, last longer

Researchers have developed solid-state batteries that can charge in a fraction of the time and pack more energy into less space than traditional lithium-ion versions. These batteries use stable solid materials instead of liquid electrolytes, enabling faster charging, reduced safety risks, and improved efficiency.

KAIST develops glare-free, heat-blocking 'smart window'... applicable to buildings and vehicles​

Researchers at KAIST develop a 'pedestrian-friendly smart window' technology that reduces heating and cooling energy consumption in urban buildings while resolving light pollution issues. The RECM system operates in three modes, allowing for real-time adjustment of light and heat transmission.

Green chemistry milestone: fluorine complexes from common fluoride salt

A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan, has developed a novel fluorinating quaternary ammonium complex with extremely low hygroscopicity, making it an excellent reagent for electrochemical fluorination. The new agent was synthesized by combining KF with tetrabutylammonium bromide and showed promise in pharma...

Discovery could boost solid-state battery performance

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have discovered a way to improve solid-state battery performance by creating a 'space charge layer' that enhances ion movement. This breakthrough could lead to better-performing batteries with improved safety and increased energy storage capacity.

"Stronger together: Interlocked electrodes push silicon battery lifespan beyond limits"

Researchers at POSTECH have developed an interlocked electrode-electrolyte system that forms covalent chemical bonds between the electrode and electrolyte, maintaining long-term stability. The IEE-based pouch cell demonstrated significantly higher energy density compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

OU researchers improve stability, efficiency of electrochemical devices important to sustainable energy production

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma have made significant breakthroughs in protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs), addressing challenges in manufacturing and efficiency. A new approach eliminates cerium-based materials, allowing pure barium zirconate-based electrolytes to remain stable at record-low temperatures.

New, non-toxic synthesis method for “miracle material” MXene

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new electrochemical synthesis method for MXene, overcoming the difficulties of producing this 'miracle material'. The new process uses electricity instead of toxic hydrofluoric acid, allowing for safer and more sustainable production.

New electrolyte design unlocks high-performance supercapacitors for extreme conditions

Researchers developed a hybrid electrolyte combining potassium trifluoromethanesulfonate with EMIMNTf₂ to reduce water evaporation and suppress side reactions. The resulting electrolyte exhibits high electrochemical stability and reliable operation in extreme temperatures.

Cations found to be the culprit behind degraded platinum electrodes

A collaboration between Japanese, Korean, and American researchers found that larger cations suppress platinum dissolution compared to smaller cations. The study reveals a 'cation effect' influencing electrode durability.

Rational design of precatalysts for efficient hydrogen production

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a highly stable catalyst for efficient hydrogen production, achieving a Faradaic efficiency of 99.9% and stability for over one month. The study highlights the importance of controlled evolution of catalyst-electrolyte interface in rational catalyst design.

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.

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.

Nanoparticle island-modified LiMn₂O₄ electrode advances lithium extraction from brine

Researchers have developed a novel LiMn₂O₄ electrode material with improved lithium extraction capacity and cycle stability. The SnO₂ nanoparticle island-modified LMO electrode material shows good selectivity and stability for lithium ions, enabling efficient electrochemical salt lake lithium extraction.

Shaping future of displays: clay/europium-based technology offers dual-mode versatility

The study introduces a game-changing concept in dual-mode display design by uniting luminescence and coloration within a single device. The device leverages smectite clay to stabilize europium(III) complexes for vibrant luminescence and heptyl viologen derivatives for striking color changes.

Your fridge uses tech from the 50’s, but scientists have an update

Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing a more efficient and environmentally friendly form of refrigeration using thermogalvanic cells. The new technology produces a cooling effect through reversible electrochemical reactions, requiring significantly less energy input than traditional methods.

Progress toward a new generation of rechargeable batteries

A Chinese team proposes adding a soluble catalyst to electrolytes in lithium-air batteries, enhancing charge transport and counteracting electrode passivation. The addition improves the batteries' performance and lifespan by reducing overpotential and increasing discharge capacity.

In-situ magic: A game changer for stabilizing electrode/electrolyte interfaces in aqueous zinc batteries

Scientists introduce a novel approach to construct robust electrode/electrolyte interphase layers on both cathode and anode of aqueous zinc batteries. The use of glutamate additives enables efficient suppression of undesirable side reactions, leading to improved electrochemical performance and cycling stability.

Advances in porousizing catalysts for boosting CO2 electroreduction

Researchers have developed new porous catalysts to enhance CO2 electroreduction, with key strategies including pore size control and structure-performance optimization. These advances aim to improve the selectivity and efficiency of CO2 conversion into valuable chemicals.

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.

How catalysts secretly lose their stability

Researchers found that COFs' catalytic activity comes from oxidic nanoparticles formed when cobalt ions detach, not the framework itself. The nanoparticles provide a suitable reaction environment and hold the catalysts in place, enabling efficient catalysis even under harsh conditions.

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.

Bubble findings could unlock better electrode and electrolyzer designs

A new study of bubbles on electrode surfaces could help improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes by understanding how blocking effects work. The findings show that only a smaller area of direct contact is blocked from its electrochemical activity, not the entire surface shadowed by each bubble.

Maximizing hydrogen peroxide formation during water electrolysis

Researchers from Ruhr University Bochum elucidate the mechanism of hydrogen peroxide formation in water electrolysis by adding carbonates. The presence of hydrogen carbonate in the electrode vicinity facilitates the production of hydrogen peroxide, reducing unwanted oxygen formation.

BESSY II shows how solid-state batteries degrade

Researchers at HZB have developed a method to precisely monitor electrochemical reactions in solid-state batteries using photoelectron spectroscopy at BESSY II. The results show that decomposition products form at interfaces, hindering lithium ion transport and reducing battery capacity with each charge cycle.

Towards cleaner energy: Breakthrough in anode electrode materials for proton conducting solid oxide fuel cells operating at medium temperature

Researchers have developed a novel perovskite-based anode material with mixed hole–proton conduction, achieving high efficiency at low and medium temperatures. The breakthrough could pave the way for important technological advancements in energy technologies.

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.

Scientists make and test efficient water-splitting catalyst predicted by theory

Researchers have created a new efficient catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction, a crucial step in producing hydrogen from water. The catalyst is about four times better than the current state-of-the-art iridium catalyst, requiring less iridium to produce hydrogen at the same rate.

Manganese sprinkled with iridium: a quantum leap in green hydrogen production

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new catalyst that reduces the amount of iridium required for hydrogen production, achieving 82% efficiency and sustaining production for over 4 months. The breakthrough could revolutionize ecologically friendly hydrogen production and pave the way for a carbon-neutral energy economy.

Longer-lasting and more sustainable green hydrogen production

Researchers at RIKEN have improved the stability of a green hydrogen production process by using a custom-made catalyst, increasing its lifetime by almost 4,000 times. The breakthrough uses earth-abundant materials, making it more sustainable and potentially cost-effective for widespread industrial use.

New ways to fine tune electrochemistry

Researchers developed new techniques to study acid-base chemistry at electrified interfaces, revealing the impact of hydrophobic layers and electric fields. These findings offer opportunities for optimizing electrochemical processes and designing novel catalytic strategies.

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.

Chemists decipher reaction process that could improve lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers have deciphered the key pathways of the sulfur reduction reaction in lithium-sulfur batteries, identifying dominant molecular pathways and critical roles of electrocatalysis. This breakthrough could lead to improved battery performance, reduced costs, and increased energy storage capacity.

New insight on electrochemical reactions – advancing the green transition

Researchers at University of Jyväskylä have gained new understanding on the chemistry of electrochemical interfaces, focusing on electrolyte ion effects. This knowledge can enhance the development of improved electrochemical technologies, including fuel cells and hydrogen peroxide synthesis.

GIST researchers improve water splitting reaction for green hydrogen gas production

Researchers from GIST have developed a new electrode using Schottky junctions to overcome the conductance limit of active catalysts, achieving high-performance water splitting and hydrogen evolution reactions. The electrode demonstrated remarkable current density and durability during continuous operation for 10 days.

Lightening the load: Beckman researchers develop autonomous electrochemistry robot

The Beckman Institute's new Electrolab robot automates electrochemical experiments and data analysis, reducing manual effort and time for researchers. The instrument can explore alternative power sources and analyze chemical reactions to combat climate change.

Microdroplets, macro results: Beckman researchers pursue Energy Earthshots

The Beckman Institute's DROPLETS project uses microdroplets to catalyze electrochemical reactions, producing clean hydrogen and sequestering carbon dioxide. The project aims to lay out a foundation for a sustainable clean energy future.

New study unveils direct synthesis of FCMs via solid-state mechanochemical reaction between graphite and PTFE

Researchers developed a novel solid-state mechanochemical reaction to synthesize FCMs from PTFE and graphite, producing materials with enhanced storage capacity and electrochemical stability. The new method bypasses toxic reagents and offers a safer alternative for practical applications.

Study suggests energy-efficient route to capturing and converting CO2

Researchers at MIT developed an electrochemical process that captures and converts CO2 in a single step, reducing energy consumption. The system can be powered by renewable electricity, making it suitable for industrial processes with no obvious renewable alternative.