Metal-Metal and Metal-Molecule Interactions on Nanoisland Covered Single Crystal Electrodes

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This project, funded by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, addresses the correlation between the structure and reactivity of binary and ternary transition metal catalysts used for electrooxidation of methanol and formic acid in fuel cell contexts. The work, carried out primarily in the laboratories of Andrzej Wieckowski at the University of Illinois, examines spontaneously deposited nanoislands of Os or Ru deposited on Pt and Au substrates. STM and electrochemical methods are used to examine these structures, as well as emersed electrode XPS examination of the structures. Calculations carried out by co-P.I. Paul Bagus at the University of North Texas are used to help interpret the detailed core level spectroscopy used to probe these systems. Collaboration with C. Woell in Bochum provides high resolution synchrotron based XPS studies of these nano-structured materials. Information obtained from these studies may find applicability in the design of improved fuel cell catalysts.Using a combination of experimental and calculational studies, Wieckowski at Illinois, and Bagus at the University of North Texas, are examining the correlation between structure and reactivity of a series of nanoisland transition metal catalyst systems. These catalysts, consisting of Os or Ru deposited on Pt or Au substrates, show promise as effective electrooxidation catalysts in methanol fuel cell applications. Information obtained from these fundamental studies may aid in the design of improved fuel cell systems.