Electrocatalysis: A Direct Alcohol Fuel Cell and Surface Science Perspective

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013 · Catalysis Today

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2012.08.013· OSTI ID:1080255

Braunchweig, B ^[1]; Hibbitts, David D ^[2]; Neurock, Matthew ^[3]; Wieckowski, A. ^[1]

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1. University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
2. ORNL
3. University of Virginia

In this report, we discuss some of the advances in surface science and theory that have enabled a more detailed understanding of the mechanisms that govern the electrocatalysis. More specifically, we examine in detail the electrooxidation of C-1 and C-2 alcohol molecules in both acidic and basic media. A combination of detailed in situ spectroscopic measurements along with density functional theory calculations have helped to establish the mechanisms that control the reaction paths and the influence of acidic and alkaline media. We discuss some of the synergies and differences between electrocatalysis and aqueous phase heterogeneous catalysis. Such analyses begin to establish a common language and framework by which to compare as well as advance both fields. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States). Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: DE-AC05-00OR22725
• OSTI ID: 1080255
• Journal Information: Catalysis Today, Vol. 202; ISSN 0920-5861
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English