In situ X-ray spectroscopy on Ir nanoparticles in confined electrolyte

Installing a global energy network which can compete with fossil fuels in terms of storage, transportability, and trade is one of the main challenges in the transition to a sustainable future. Hydrogen is likely to be an important building block in such a network and the obvious method of hydrogen production is the electrolysis of water. The limiting reaction in this process is the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), due to scarce and unstable electrocatalysts.

In order to support the development of new catalyst materials, my research aims to find electronic properties essential to an active and stable electrocatalyst. In my presentation I will lay out how the electronic structure of iridium oxide develops under applied potentials.

Recently recorded in situ X-ray spectroscopy forms the basis of that discussion and is the center of my work.