Probing Chemical Bond Activation in Water and Small Organic Molecules During Electrochemical Conversion to Carbon Dioxide

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Professor Carol Korzeniewski of Texas Tech University is funded by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program to study oxidation pathways of methanol and related small molecules on electrodes, which constitute fundamental steps in fuel cells. Bulk and graphite-supported nanoparticles that contain platinum and platinum-group metals will serve as substrates. The reactions will be studied by vibrational spectroscopy, scanning force microscopy and Monte Carlo simulations. The objective is to identify steps that limit current flow, an understanding of which can help to improve electric power generation. Different molecular behaviors are observed on bulk and nanoparticle materials. This research could lead to a molecular understanding of this paradox.Fuel cells are an exciting growing technology based on an electrochemical device that combines hydrogen fuel and oxygen from the air to produce electricity, heat and water. Fuel cells operate without combustion, so they are virtually pollution free. Research is needed to overcome some of the problems and to further develop this technology.