1
|
Xue L, Chen W, Zheng P, Geng J, Zhang F, Li X, Zhang Z, Hu X. Catalyst-Free Oxidation of Styrene to Styrene Oxide Using Circulating Microdroplets in an Oxygen Atmosphere. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:26909-26915. [PMID: 39300790 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c08018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Water microdroplets possess unique interfacial properties that enable chemical reactions to occur spontaneously and increase the reaction rate by orders of magnitude. In this study, water containing styrene (SY) was cyclically sprayed into the air to form microdroplets with an average diameter of 6.7 μm. These microdroplets allowed SY to be oxidized into styrene oxide (SO) without catalysts. No oxidation products of SY were observed in the bulk solution under the same conditions, while in microdroplet reactions 4.2% conversion of SY with approximately 3.1 mM SO was detected. Compared with the traditional spraying microdroplet method, the oxidation product concentration was enhanced by 1000 times. Experiments proved that an aerobic environment boosts SY oxidation, leading to a proposed dual-path hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation mechanism at the droplet interface. This was confirmed by density functional theory calculations (DFT). Furthermore, in the presence of additional ultrasound, the SY oxidation process initiated by water droplets can be further enhanced, and 7.0% conversion of SY with approximately 5.2 mM SO was detected. The cyclic spraying method greatly enhanced the oxidation product concentration, showing the potential for large scale chemical production using microdroplets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lian Xue
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Weida Chen
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Peng Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Jiao Geng
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Xinyao Li
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Zhibing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Xingbang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Mesoscopic Chemistry of MOE, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dong X, Wang Z, Hou Y, Feng Y, Berbille A, Li H, Wang ZL, Tang W. Regulating Contact-Electro-Catalysis Using Polymer/Metal Janus Composite Catalysts. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 39353155 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c07446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Interfacial contact electrification can catalyze redox reactions through a process called contact-electro-catalysis (CEC). The two main reaction paths for producing reactive oxygen species via CEC are the water oxidation reaction (WOR) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, we designed a polymer/metal Janus composite catalyst that regulated the reaction rates of the WOR and ORR based on the catalyst composition. The ORR was preferentially enhanced when the polymer was negatively charged during contact electrification, while the WOR was preferentially enhanced when the polymer was positively charged. This phenomenon was observed for various conductive materials. The increase in the enhancement of the reaction rates depended on the conductivity and work function of the metal. We expect that this efficient CEC method can form a universal strategy for improving the performance of existing catalysts, as contact electrification is common in nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuanli Dong
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ziming Wang
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yu Hou
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yawei Feng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Andy Berbille
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huifan Li
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zhong Lin Wang
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Center for High-Entropy Energy and Systems, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100140, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Song X, Basheer C, Xia Y, Zare RN. Oxidation of Ammonia in Water Microdroplets Produces Nitrate and Molecular Hydrogen. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:16196-16203. [PMID: 39178340 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
Water microdroplets containing dissolved ammonia (30-300 μM) are sprayed through a copper oxide mesh with a 200 μm average pore size, resulting in the formation of nitrate (NO3-) and the release of molecular hydrogen (H2). The products result from a redox process that takes place at the liquid-solid interface through contact electrification, where no external potential is applied. Oxidation is initiated by superoxide radical anions (O2-) that originate from the oxygen in the air surrounding the microdroplets and from the hydroxyl radicals (OH•) originating from the water-air interface. Two spin traps (TEMPO and DMPO) capture these radicals as well as NH2OH+•, HNO, NO•, NO2•, and NOOH, which are detected by mass spectrometry. We also directly observed N2O2-• by the same means. We found that the hydrogen atom from the ammonia molecule can be set free not only in the form of H• but also as H2, which is detected using a residue gas analyzer. The oxidation process can be significantly enhanced by a factor of 3 when the sprayed microdroplets are irradiated with ultraviolet light (265 nm, 5 W). 35% of 300 μM ammonia can be degraded within 20 μs, and the nitrate conversion rate is estimated to be 15 nmol·mg-1·h-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Song
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Chanbasha Basheer
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tang J, Zhang B, Zhang M, Yang H. Interfacial Effects of Catalysis in Pickering Emulsions. J Phys Chem Lett 2024; 15:8973-8983. [PMID: 39186038 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.4c01781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid or gas-liquid interfaces are ubiquitous in nature and in industrial production. Understanding the unique effects arising from the asymmetric interfaces and controlling the catalytic reactions are frontiers of physical chemistry. However, our understanding of the reactivity and selectivity at the interfaces remains scant. Pickering emulsions are emerging as a stable biphasic reaction system, which provides a new opportunity for clarifying the inherent features responsible for prominent interfacial reactivity or selectivity. This Perspective tentatively discusses the unique effects of interfacial adsorption, hydrogen bonding of water molecules, and strong electric field at the interfaces. Additionally, it highlights key insights into the fundamental mechanisms of reaction kinetic and thermodynamic alterations, molecular orientations, and the spontaneous generation of reactive species at the interfaces through representative examples. Finally, we delineate the current challenges and propose future research directions. The perspectives advanced herein may serve as valuable guidance for the design of efficient interfacial catalytic systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan 243002, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Boyu Zhang
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China
| | - Hengquan Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li Y, Ding J, Qin W. Enhanced Selectivity in Microdroplet-Mediated Enzyme Catalysis. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:24389-24397. [PMID: 39073863 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Natural enzymes with enhanced catalytic activity and selectivity have long been studied by tuning the microenvironment around the active site, but how to modulate the active-site electric field in a simple fashion remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate that microdroplets as a simple yet versatile reactor can enhance the electric field at the active site of an enzyme. By using horseradish peroxidase as a model, improved selectivity in microdroplet-mediated enzyme catalysis can be obtained. Quantum mechanical/molecular dynamics calculations and vibrational Stark spectroscopy reveal that the electric field at the microdroplet interface can influence the electrostatic preorganization and orientation of the enzyme to enhance its internal electric field. As a result, the free energies of the substrate and heme can be tuned by the internal electric field, thereby changing its catalytic reaction pathway for a classical substrate, 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine, and enabling selective C-N additions for specific substrates. This finding provides a green, simple, and effective way to modulate enzyme-catalyzed reactions and holds promise for a broad spectrum of biosensing and biosynthesis applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinhao Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Jiawang Ding
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Wei Qin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, Shandong 266237, P. R. China
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lee K, Cho Y, Kim JC, Choi C, Kim J, Lee JK, Li S, Kwak SK, Choi SQ. Catalyst-free selective oxidation of C(sp 3)-H bonds in toluene on water. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6127. [PMID: 39033208 PMCID: PMC11271591 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50352-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The anisotropic water interfaces provide an environment to drive various chemical reactions not seen in bulk solutions. However, catalytic reactions by the aqueous interfaces are still in their infancy, with the emphasis being on the reaction rate acceleration on water. Here, we report that the oil-water interface activates and oxidizes C(sp3)-H bonds in toluene, yielding benzaldehyde with high selectivity (>99%) and conversion (>99%) under mild, catalyst-free conditions. Collision at the interface between oil-dissolved toluene and hydroxyl radicals spontaneously generated near the water-side interfaces is responsible for the unexpectedly high selectivity. Protrusion of free OH groups from interfacial water destabilizes the transition state of the OH-addition by forming π-hydrogen bonds with toluene, while the H-abstraction remains unchanged to effectively activate C(sp3)-H bonds. Moreover, the exposed free OH groups form hydrogen bonds with the produced benzaldehyde, suppressing it from being overoxidized. Our investigation shows that the oil-water interface has considerable promise for chemoselective redox reactions on water without any catalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyoungmun Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yumi Cho
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulju-gun, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Chul Kim
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), UNIST-gil 50, Ulju-gun, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chiyoung Choi
- Department of Applied Bioengineering, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiwon Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Kyoo Lee
- Department of Applied Bioengineering, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sheng Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for the Nanocentury, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Kyu Kwak
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Siyoung Q Choi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- KAIST Institute for the Nanocentury, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nandy A, Mondal S, Koner D, Banerjee S. Heavy Water Microdroplet Surface Enriches the Lighter Isotopologue Impurities. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:19050-19058. [PMID: 38958201 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Water microdroplets promote unusual chemical reactions at the air-water interface. However, the interfacial structure of water microdroplets and its potential influence on chemical processes are still enigmatic. Here, we present evidence of in-droplet fractionation of water isotopologues. Employing a sonic spray, we atomized the heavy water (D2O, 99.9 atom % D) solution of three classes of organic compounds (basic, acidic, and neutral). The analytes were predominantly desorbed from the resulting droplet surface in protonated form rather than deuterated form, as detected by mass spectrometry. This result remained unaltered upon adding formic acid-d2 (DCOOD) to the droplet. Monitoring Dakin oxidation of benzaldehyde at the surface of binary microdroplets composed of 1:1 (v/v) D2O/H218O revealed the preferred formation of phenolate-16O over phenolate-18O. Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometric analysis of the vapor composition in the sprayed aerosol revealed the preferential evaporation of lighter water isotopologue impurities from the surface of heavy water microdroplets. These results indicate the enrichment of lighter water isotopologue impurities (HOD/H2O) on the surface of heavy water microdroplets, implying possible future developments for water isotopologue fractionation using microdroplets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Nandy
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati, Tirupati 517507, India
| | - Supratim Mondal
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati, Tirupati 517507, India
| | - Debasish Koner
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi 502284, India
| | - Shibdas Banerjee
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati, Tirupati 517507, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Y, Wang Y, Hu B, Qiu M, Gao G, Wei P. Catalyst-free contact-electro-catalytic H 2O 2 synthesis via simple combination of a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) stir bar and ultrasound. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:7331-7334. [PMID: 38913438 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc01576b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Herein, we present a catalyst-free contact-electro-catalytic method for synthesizing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by combining continuous agitation with a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) stir bar and ultrasonication. A high H2O2 production rate of 256.6 μM h-1 is achieved under ambient conditions without adding particle catalysts and sacrificial agents, which is competitive with recent advancements in redox technology. Eco-friendliness, convenience and efficiency make this process a promising alternative method for H2O2 synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Huancheng Road 508, Shaoxing 312000, China.
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Huancheng Road 508, Shaoxing 312000, China.
- Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Baowei Hu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Huancheng Road 508, Shaoxing 312000, China.
| | - Muqing Qiu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Huancheng Road 508, Shaoxing 312000, China.
| | - Guandao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Peiyun Wei
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Huancheng Road 508, Shaoxing 312000, China.
- Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mofidfar M, Mehrgardi MA, Zare RN. Water Microdroplets Surrounded by Alcohol Vapor Cause Spontaneous Oxidation of Alcohols to Organic Peroxides. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:18498-18503. [PMID: 38935892 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c04092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Using real-time mass spectrometric (MS) monitoring, we demonstrate one-step, catalyst-free spontaneous oxidation of various alcohols (ROH) to key reactive intermediates for the formation of ROO- compounds on the surface of water microdroplets surrounded by alcohol vapor, carried out under ambient conditions. These organic peroxides (POs) can act as important secondary organic aerosols (SOA). We used hydrogen-deuterium exchange by spraying D2O instead of H2O to learn about the reaction mechanism, and the results demonstrate the crucial role of the water-air interface in microdroplet chemistry. We find that the formation of POs relies on electron transfer occurring at the microdroplet interface, which generates hydrogen atoms and hydroxyl radicals that lead to a cascade of radical reactions. This electron transfer is believed to be driven by two factors: (1) the emergence of a strong electrostatic potential on the microdroplet's surface; and (2) the partial solvation of ions at the interface. Mass spectra reveal that the formation of POs is dependent on the alcohol structure, with tertiary alcohols showing a higher tendency to form organic peroxides than secondary alcohols, which in turn are more reactive than primary alcohols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mofidfar
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | | | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yuan G, Jin Z, Cao Y, Schulz HM, Gluyas J, Liu K, He X, Wang Y. Microdroplets initiate organic-inorganic interactions and mass transfer in thermal hydrous geosystems. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4960. [PMID: 38862499 PMCID: PMC11167059 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49293-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Organic-inorganic interactions regulate the dynamics of hydrocarbons, water, minerals, CO2, and H2 in thermal rocks, yet their initiation remains debated. To address this, we conducted isotope-tagged and in-situ visual thermal experiments. Isotope-tagged studies revealed extensive H/O transfers in hydrous n-C20H42-H2O-feldspar systems. Visual experiments observed water microdroplets forming at 150-165 °C in oil phases near the water-oil interface without surfactants, persisting until complete miscibility above 350 °C. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) detected hydroxyl free radicals concurrent with microdroplet formation. Here we propose a two-fold mechanism: water-derived and n-C20H42-derived free radicals drive interactions with organic species, while water-derived and mineral-derived ions trigger mineral interactions. These processes, facilitated by microdroplets and bulk water, blur boundaries between organic and inorganic species, enabling extensive interactions and mass transfer. Our findings redefine microscopic interplays between organic and inorganic components, offering insights into diagenetic and hydrous-metamorphic processes, and mass transfer cycles in deep basins and subduction zones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Deep Oil and Gas, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, P.R. China.
- Institute of Energy, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, P.R. China.
| | - Zihao Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Deep Oil and Gas, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Yingchang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Deep Oil and Gas, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, P.R. China.
| | - Hans-Martin Schulz
- GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Telegrafenberg, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Jon Gluyas
- Department of Earth Sciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Keyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Deep Oil and Gas, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Xingliang He
- Qingdao Institute of Marine Geology, China Geological Survey, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanzhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Deep Oil and Gas, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang Z, Dong X, Tang W, Wang ZL. Contact-electro-catalysis (CEC). Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4349-4373. [PMID: 38619095 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00736g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Contact-electro-catalysis (CEC) is an emerging field that utilizes electron transfer occurring at the liquid-solid and even liquid-liquid interfaces because of the contact-electrification effect to stimulate redox reactions. The energy source of CEC is external mechanical stimuli, and solids to be used are generally organic as well as in-organic materials even though they are chemically inert. CEC has rapidly garnered extensive attention and demonstrated its potential for both mechanistic research and practical applications of mechanocatalysis. This review aims to elucidate the fundamental principle, prominent features, and applications of CEC by compiling and analyzing the recent developments. In detail, the theoretical foundation for CEC, the methods for improving CEC, and the unique advantages of CEC have been discussed. Furthermore, we outline a roadmap for future research and development of CEC. We hope that this review will stimulate extensive studies in the chemistry community for investigating the CEC, a catalytic process in nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziming Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xuanli Dong
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wei Tang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhong Lin Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0245, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Voci S, Vannoy KJ, Dick JE. Femtoliter oil droplets act as CO 2 micropumps for uninterrupted electrochemiluminescence at the water|oil interface. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 661:853-860. [PMID: 38330657 PMCID: PMC11307245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.01.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Interfacial effects are well-known to significantly alter chemical reactivity, especially in confined environments, where the surface to volume ratio increases. Here, we observed an inhomogeneity in the electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) intensity decrease over time in a multiphasic system composed of femtoliter water droplets entrapping femtoliter volumes of the 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) continuous phase. In usual electrochemiluminescence (ECL) reactions involving an ECL chromophore and oxalate ([C2O4]2-), the build-up of CO2 diminishes the ECL signal with time because of bubble formation. We hypothesised that relative solubilities of chemical species in these environments play a dramatic role in interfacial reactivity. Water droplets, loaded with the ECL luminophore [Ru(bpy)3]2+ and the coreactant [C2O4]2- were allowed to stochastically collide and adsorb at the surface of a glassy carbon macroelectrode. When water droplets coalesce on the surface, they leave behind femtoliter droplets of the DCE phase (inclusions). We report the surprising finding that the addition of multiple interfaces, due to the presence of continuous phase's femtoliter inclusions, allows sustained ECL over time after successive potential applications at the triple-phase boundary between water droplet|electrode|DCE inclusion. When femtoliter droplets of DCE form on the electrode surface, bright rings of ECL are observed during the simultaneous oxidation of [Ru(bpy)3]2+ and [C2O4]2-. Control experiments and finite element modelling allowed us to propose that these rings arise because CO2 that is generated near the 1,2-dichloroethane droplet partitions in due to relative solubility of CO2 in 1,2-dichloroethane and builds up and/or is expelled at the top of the droplet. The small droplets of the DCE phase act as micropumps, pumping away carbon dioxide from the interface. These results highlight the unexpected point that confined microenvironments and their geometry can tune chemical reactions of industrial importance and fundamental interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Voci
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Kathryn J Vannoy
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Dick
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Heindel JP, LaCour RA, Head-Gordon T. The role of charge in microdroplet redox chemistry. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3670. [PMID: 38693110 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47879-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In charged water microdroplets, which occur in nature or in the lab upon ultrasonication or in electrospray processes, the thermodynamics for reactive chemistry can be dramatically altered relative to the bulk phase. Here, we provide a theoretical basis for the observation of accelerated chemistry by simulating water droplets of increasing charge imbalance to create redox agents such as hydroxyl and hydrogen radicals and solvated electrons. We compute the hydration enthalpy of OH- and H+ that controls the electron transfer process, and the corresponding changes in vertical ionization energy and vertical electron affinity of the ions, to create OH• and H• reactive species. We find that at ~ 20 - 50% of the Rayleigh limit of droplet charge the hydration enthalpy of both OH- and H+ have decreased by >50 kcal/mol such that electron transfer becomes thermodynamically favorable, in correspondence with the more favorable vertical electron affinity of H+ and the lowered vertical ionization energy of OH-. We provide scaling arguments that show that the nanoscale calculations and conclusions extend to the experimental microdroplet length scale. The relevance of the droplet charge for chemical reactivity is illustrated for the formation of H2O2, and has clear implications for other redox reactions observed to occur with enhanced rates in microdroplets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Heindel
- Kenneth S. Pitzer Theory Center and Department of Chemistry, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - R Allen LaCour
- Kenneth S. Pitzer Theory Center and Department of Chemistry, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Teresa Head-Gordon
- Kenneth S. Pitzer Theory Center and Department of Chemistry, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of CAlifornia, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen X, Xia Y, Wu Y, Xu Y, Jia X, Zare RN, Wang F. Sprayed Oil-Water Microdroplets as a Hydrogen Source. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10868-10874. [PMID: 38573037 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Liquid water provides the largest hydrogen reservoir on the earth's surface. Direct utilization of water as a source of hydrogen atoms and molecules is fundamental to the evolution of the ecosystem and industry. However, liquid water is an unfavorable electron donor for forming these hydrogen species owing to its redox inertness. We report oil-mediated electron extraction from water microdroplets, which is easily achieved by ultrasonically spraying an oil-water emulsion. Based on charge measurement and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, contact electrification between oil and a water microdroplet is demonstrated to be the origin of electron extraction from water molecules. This contact electrification results in enhanced charge separation and subsequent mutual neutralization, which enables a ∼13-fold increase of charge carriers in comparison with an ultrapure water spray, leading to a ∼16-fold increase of spray-sourced hydrogen that can hydrogenate CO2 to selectively produce CO. These findings emphasize the potential of charge separation enabled by spraying an emulsion of liquid water and a hydrophobic liquid in driving hydrogenation reactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuke Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Yingfeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, P. R. China
| | - Yunpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Xiuquan Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen H, Wang R, Chiba T, Foreman K, Bowen K, Zhang X. Designer "Quasi-Benzyne": The Spontaneous Reduction of Ortho-Diiodotetrafluorobenzene on Water Microdroplets. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10979-10983. [PMID: 38586980 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
It has been widely shown that water microdroplets have a plethora of unique properties that are highly distinct from those of bulk water, among which an especially intriguing one is the strong reducing power as a result of the electrons spontaneously generated at the air-water interface. In this study, we take advantage of the reducing power of water microdroplets to reduce ortho-diiodotetrafluorobenzene (o-C6F4I2) into a C6F4I2•- radical anion. Photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory computations reveal that the excess electron in C6F4I2•- occupies the I-C1-C2-I linkage, which elongates the C-I bonds but surprisingly shortens the C1-C2 bond, making the bond order higher than a double bond, similar to the benzyne molecule, so we named it "quasi-benzyne". The C6F4I2•- anion was further successfully utilized in a Diels-Alder reaction, a typical reaction for benzyne. This study provides a good example of strategically utilizing the spontaneous properties of water microdroplets and generating an especially exotic anion, and we anticipate that microdroplet chemistry can be an avenue rich in opportunities for new catalyst-free organic reactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin300071, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin300192, China
| | - Ruijing Wang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin300071, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin300192, China
| | - Tatsuya Chiba
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Kathryn Foreman
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Kit Bowen
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Xinxing Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin300071, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin300192, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rodriguez HM, Martyniuk M, Iyer KS, Ciampi S. Insulator-on-Conductor Fouling Amplifies Aqueous Electrolysis Rates. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10299-10311. [PMID: 38591156 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c11238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The chemical industry is a major consumer of fossil fuels. Several chemical reactions of practical value proceed with the gain or loss of electrons, opening a path to integrate renewable electricity into chemical manufacturing. However, most organic molecules have low aqueous solubility, causing green and cheap electricity-driven reactions to suffer from intrinsically low reaction rates in industry's solvent of choice: water. Here, we show that a strategic, partial electrode fouling with hydrophobic insulators (oils and plastics) offsets kinetic limitations caused by poor reactant solubility, opening a new path for the direct integration of renewable electricity into the production of commodity chemicals. Through electrochemiluminescence microscopy, we reveal for the oxidation of organic reactants up to 6-fold reaction rate increase at the "fouled" oil-electrolyte-electrode interface relative to clean electrolyte-electrode areas. Analogously, electrodes partially masked (fouled) with plastic patterns, deposited either photolithographically (photoresists) or manually (inexpensive household glues and sealants), outperform clean electrodes. The effect is not limited to reactants of limited water solubility, and, for example, net gold electrodeposition rates are up to 22% larger at fouled than clean electrodes. In a system involving a surface-active reactant, rate augmentation is driven by the synergy between insulator-confined reactant enrichment and insulator-induced current crowding, whereas only the latter and possibly localized decrease in iR drop near the insulator are relevant in a system composed of non-surface-active species. Our counterintuitive electrode design enhances electrolysis rates despite the diminished area of intimate electrolyte-electrode contact and introduces a new path for upscaling aqueous electrochemical processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Morris Rodriguez
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Mariusz Martyniuk
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Killugudi Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Simone Ciampi
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Song Z, Zhu C, Gong K, Wang R, Zhang J, Zhao S, Li Z, Zhang X, Xie J. Deciphering the Microdroplet Acceleration Factors of Aza-Michael Addition Reactions. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10963-10972. [PMID: 38567839 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Microdroplet chemistry is emerging as a great tool for accelerating reactions by several orders of magnitude. Several unique properties such as extreme pHs, interfacial electric fields (IEFs), and partial solvation have been reported to be responsible for the acceleration; however, which factor plays the key role remains elusive. Here, we performed quantum chemical calculations to explore the underlying mechanisms of an aza-Michael addition reaction between methylamine and acrylamide. We showed that the acceleration in methanol microdroplets results from the cumulative effects of several factors. The acidic surface of the microdroplet plays a dominating role, leading to a decrease of ∼9 kcal/mol in the activation barrier. We speculated that the dissociation of both methanol and trace water contributes to the surface acidity. An IEF of 0.1 V/Å can further decrease the barrier by ∼2 kcal/mol. Partial solvation has a negligible effect on lowering the activation barrier in microdroplets but can increase the collision frequency between reactants. With acidity revealed to be the major accelerating factor for methanol droplets, reactions on water microdroplets should have even higher rates because water is more acidic. Both theoretically and experimentally, we confirmed that water microdroplets significantly accelerate the aza-Michael reaction, achieving an acceleration factor that exceeds 107. This work elucidates the multifactorial influences on the microdroplet acceleration mechanism, and with such detailed mechanistic investigations, we anticipate that microdroplet chemistry will be an avenue rich in opportunities in the realm of green synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhexuan Song
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chenghui Zhu
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Ke Gong
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ruijing Wang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jianze Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Supin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zesheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xinxing Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), Renewable Energy Conversion and Storage Centre, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Frontiers Science Centre for New Organic Matter, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jing Xie
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ma Q, Chu B, He H. Revealing the Contribution of Interfacial Processes to Atmospheric Oxidizing Capacity in Haze Chemistry. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6071-6076. [PMID: 38551192 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The atmospheric oxidizing capacity is the most important driving force for the chemical transformation of pollutants in the atmosphere. Traditionally, the atmospheric oxidizing capacity mainly depends on the concentration of O3 and other gaseous oxidants. However, the atmospheric oxidizing capacity based on gas-phase oxidation cannot accurately describe the explosive growth of secondary particulate matter under complex air pollution. From the chemical perspective, the atmospheric oxidizing capacity mainly comes from the activation of O2, which can be achieved in both gas-phase and interfacial processes. In the heterogeneous or multiphase formation pathways of secondary particulate matter, the enhancement of oxidizing capacity ascribed to the O2/H2O-involved interfacial oxidation and hydrolysis processes is an unrecognized source of atmospheric oxidizing capacity. Revealing the enhanced oxidizing capacity due to interfacial processes in high-concentration particulate matter environments and its contribution to the formation of secondary pollution are critical in understanding haze chemistry. The accurate evaluation of atmospheric oxidizing capacity ascribed to interfacial processes is also an important scientific basis for the implementation of PM2.5 and O3 collaborative control in China and around the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingxin Ma
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Biwu Chu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Hong He
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Xia D, Zhang H, Ju Y, Xie HB, Su L, Ma F, Jiang J, Chen J, Francisco JS. Spontaneous Degradation of the "Forever Chemicals" Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) on Water Droplet Surfaces. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 38584396 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Because of their innate chemical stability, the ubiquitous perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been dubbed "forever chemicals" and have attracted considerable attention. However, their stability under environmental conditions has not been widely verified. Herein, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a widely used and detected PFAS, was found to be spontaneously degraded in aqueous microdroplets under room temperature and atmospheric pressure conditions. This unexpected fast degradation occurred via a unique multicycle redox reaction of PFOA with interfacial reactive species on the droplet surface. Similar degradation was observed for other PFASs. This study extends the current understanding of the environmental fate and chemistry of PFASs and provides insight into aid in the development of effective methods for removing PFASs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deming Xia
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6316, United States
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Marin Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong 264209, China
| | - Yun Ju
- School of Marin Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong 264209, China
| | - Hong-Bin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Lihao Su
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Fangfang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- School of Marin Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong 264209, China
| | - Jingwen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Joseph S Francisco
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6316, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang R, Zhang Z, Chen X, Jiang J, Hua L, Jia X, Bao R, Wang F. Pyrogenic Carbon Degradation by Galvanic Coupling with Sprayed Seawater Microdroplets. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:8528-8535. [PMID: 38497738 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Surface waves are known for their mechanical role in coastal processes that influence the weather and climate. However, their chemical impact, particularly on the transformation of pyrogenic carbon, is poorly understood. Pyrogenic carbon is generally assumed to show negligible postformational alteration of its stable carbon isotope composition. Here we present an electrochemical interaction of pyrogenic carbon with the sprayed seawater microdroplets resulting from wave breaking, driven by the galvanic coupling between the microdroplet water-carbon interfaces and the microdroplet water-vapor interfaces. This enables refractory pyrogenic carbon to rapidly degrade via the oxygenation and mineralization reaction, which makes it ∼2.6‰ enriched in 13C, far exceeding the generally assumed postformation alteration values (<0.5‰) of pyrogenic carbon. The unique chemical dynamics of seawater microdroplets provide new insights into the discrepancy in carbon isotope signatures between riverine and marine black carbon, emphasizing the potential of coastal oceans for carbon sequestration in the global carbon cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruolan Zhang
- Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Zhenyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Xuke Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Jichun Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Lei Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Xiuquan Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
| | - Rui Bao
- Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Key Lab of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, P. R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gong K, Meng Y, Zare RN, Xie J. Molecular Mechanism for Converting Carbon Dioxide Surrounding Water Microdroplets Containing 1,2,3-Triazole to Formic Acid. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:8576-8584. [PMID: 38488449 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Spraying water microdroplets containing 1,2,3-triazole (Tz) has been found to effectively convert gas-phase carbon dioxide (CO2), but not predissolved CO2, into formic acid (FA). Herein, we elucidate the reaction mechanism at the molecular level through quantum chemistry calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations. Computations suggest a multistep reaction mechanism that initiates from the adsorption of CO2 by Tz to form a CO2-Tz complex (named reactant complex (RC)). Then, the RC either is reduced by electrons that were generated at the air-liquid interface of the water microdroplet and then undergoes intramolecular proton transfer (PT) or switches the reduction and PT steps to form a [HCO2-(Tz-H)]- complex (named PC-). Subsequently, PC- undergoes reduction and the C-N bond dissociates to generate COOH- and [Tz-H]- (m/z = 69). COOH- easily converts to HCOOH and is captured at m/z = 45 in mass spectroscopy. Notably, the intramolecular PT step can be significantly lowered by the oriented electric field at the interface and a water-bridge mechanism. The mechanism is further confirmed by testing multiple azoles. The AIMD simulations reveal a novel proton transfer mechanism where water serves as a transporter and is shown to play an important role dynamically. Moreover, the transient •COOH captured by the experiment is proposed to be partly formed by the reaction with H•, pointing again to the importance of the air-water interface. This work provides valuable insight into the important mechanistic, kinetic, and dynamic features of converting gas-phase CO2 to valuable products by azoles or amines dissolved in water microdroplets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Gong
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yifan Meng
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jing Xie
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Song X, Zare RN. The power of microdroplet photochemistry. Chem Sci 2024; 15:3670-3672. [PMID: 38454998 PMCID: PMC10915808 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc00056k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This study presents compelling evidence demonstrating that irradiation of the air-solution interface, whether achieved through the spraying of microdroplets into the air or by bubbling air through a solution, significantly accelerates the rate of photochemical reactions by orders of magnitude compared to identical reaction conditions in bulk solutions. We propose this approach as a novel and versatile method for harnessing solar energy in chemical transformations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Song
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University Stanford California 94305 USA
| | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University Stanford California 94305 USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Galembeck F, Santos LP, Burgo TAL, Galembeck A. The emerging chemistry of self-electrified water interfaces. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:2578-2602. [PMID: 38305696 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00763d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Water is known for dissipating electrostatic charges, but it is also a universal agent of matter electrification, creating charged domains in any material contacting or containing it. This new role of water was discovered during the current century. It is proven in a fast-growing number of publications reporting direct experimental measurements of excess charge and electric potential. It is indirectly verified by its success in explaining surprising phenomena in chemical synthesis, electric power generation, metastability, and phase transition kinetics. Additionally, electrification by water is opening the way for developing green technologies that are fully compatible with the environment and have great potential to contribute to sustainability. Electrification by water shows that polyphasic matter is a charge mosaic, converging with the Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars effect, which was discovered one century ago but is still often ignored. Electrified sites in a real system are niches showing various local electrochemical potentials for the charged species. Thus, the electrified mosaics display variable chemical reactivity and mass transfer patterns. Water contributes to interfacial electrification from its singular structural, electric, mixing, adsorption, and absorption properties. A long list of previously unexpected consequences of interfacial electrification includes: "on-water" reactions of chemicals dispersed in water that defy current chemical wisdom; reactions in electrified water microdroplets that do not occur in bulk water, transforming the droplets in microreactors; and lowered surface tension of water, modifying wetting, spreading, adhesion, cohesion, and other properties of matter. Asymmetric capacitors charged by moisture and water are now promising alternative equipment for simultaneously producing electric power and green hydrogen, requiring only ambient thermal energy. Changing surface tension by interfacial electrification also modifies phase-change kinetics, eliminating metastability that is the root of catastrophic electric discharges and destructive explosions. It also changes crystal habits, producing needles and dendrites that shorten battery life. These recent findings derive from a single factor, water's ability to electrify matter, touching on the most relevant aspects of chemistry. They create tremendous scientific opportunities to understand the matter better, and a new chemistry based on electrified interfaces is now emerging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Galembeck
- Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Campinas, Institute of Chemistry, 13083-872, Campinas, Brazil.
- Galembetech Consultores e Tecnologia, 13080-661, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Leandra P Santos
- Galembetech Consultores e Tecnologia, 13080-661, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Thiago A L Burgo
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Andre Galembeck
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-560, Recife, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang Z, Dong X, Li XF, Feng Y, Li S, Tang W, Wang ZL. A contact-electro-catalysis process for producing reactive oxygen species by ball milling of triboelectric materials. Nat Commun 2024; 15:757. [PMID: 38272926 PMCID: PMC10810876 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45041-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Ball milling is a representative mechanochemical strategy that uses the mechanical agitation-induced effects, defects, or extreme conditions to activate substrates. Here, we demonstrate that ball grinding could bring about contact-electro-catalysis (CEC) by using inert and conventional triboelectric materials. Exemplified by a liquid-assisted-grinding setup involving polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced, despite PTFE being generally considered as catalytically inert. The formation of ROS occurs with various polymers, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polypropylene (PP), and the amount of generated ROS aligns well with the polymers' contact-electrification abilities. It is suggested that mechanical collision not only maximizes the overlap in electron wave functions across the interface, but also excites phonons that provide the energy for electron transition. We expect the utilization of triboelectric materials and their derived CEC could lead to a field of ball milling-assisted mechanochemistry using any universal triboelectric materials under mild conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziming Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xuanli Dong
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiao-Fen Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials (MOE), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yawei Feng
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Shunning Li
- School of Advanced Materials, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Wei Tang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Zhong Lin Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100140, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0245, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Dong J, Chen J, Wang W, Wei Z, Tian ZQ, Fan FR. Charged Microdroplets as Microelectrochemical Cells for CO 2 Reduction and C-C Coupling. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:2227-2236. [PMID: 38224553 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Charged microdroplets offer novel electrochemical environments, distinct from traditional solid-liquid or solid-liquid-gas interfaces, due to the intense electric fields at liquid-gas interfaces. In this study, we propose that charged microdroplets serve as microelectrochemical cells (MECs), enabling unique electrochemical reactions at the gas-liquid interface. Using electrospray-generated microdroplets, we achieved multielectron CO2 reduction and C-C coupling to synthesize ethanol using molecular catalysts. These catalysts effectively harness and relay electrons, enhancing the longevity of solvated electrons and enabling multielectron reactions. Importantly, we revealed the intrinsic relationship between the size and charge density of a MEC and its reaction selectivity. Employing in situ mass spectrometry, we identified reaction intermediates (molecular catalyst adducts with HCOO) and oxidation products, elucidating the CO2 reduction mechanism and the comprehensive reaction procedure. Our research underscores the promising role of charged microdroplets in pioneering new electrochemical systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Jianxiong Chen
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wenxin Wang
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhenwei Wei
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhong-Qun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Feng Ru Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Li J, Xia Y, Song X, Chen B, Zare RN. Continuous ammonia synthesis from water and nitrogen via contact electrification. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2318408121. [PMID: 38232282 PMCID: PMC10823170 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2318408121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
We synthesized ammonia (NH3) by bubbling nitrogen (N2) gas into bulk liquid water (200 mL) containing 50 mg polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles (~5 µm in diameter) suspended with the help of a surfactant (Tween 20, ~0.05 vol.%) at room temperature (25 °C). Electron spin resonance spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations reveal that water acts as the proton donor for the reduction of N2. Moreover, isotopic labeling of the N2 gas shows that it is the source of nitrogen in the ammonia. We propose a mechanism for ammonia generation based on the activation of N2 caused by electron transfer and reduction processes driven by contact electrification. We optimized the pH of the PTFE suspension at 6.5 to 7.0 and employed ultrasonic mixing. We found an ammonia production rate of ~420 μmol L-1 h-1 per gram of PTFE particles for the conditions described above. This rate did not change more than 10% over an 8-h period of sustained reaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Health and Environment, Jianghan University, Wuhan430056, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Health and Environment, Jianghan University, Wuhan430056, China
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Xiaowei Song
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Bolei Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Environmental and Health Effects of Persistent Toxic Substances, School of Health and Environment, Jianghan University, Wuhan430056, China
| | - Richard N. Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Song X, Basheer C, Zare RN. Water Microdroplets-Initiated Methane Oxidation. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:27198-27204. [PMID: 38054976 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c08643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The special redox reactivity of water microdroplets causes "mild ignition" of methane gas to form methane oxygenates. The C(sp3)-H bond of methane can be activated by the hydroxyl radical (OH·) or the hydrogen radical (H·) across the air-water interface (AWI) of microdroplets to generate the methyl radical (CH3·). Once CH3· is formed, it undergoes free-radical reactions with O2 in the air, excessive OH· and H· across the AWI, and H2O2 present at the AWI and generated CH3· itself to produce methanol and other species. Production of the methanol and other oxygenates was confirmed by gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and 1H- and 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance. Formic acid, acetic acid, ethanol, carbon dioxide, and methyl peroxide were also detected as methane oxidation byproducts. This water microdroplet-initiated oxidation process can be further enhanced under ultrasonication to yield 2.66 ± 0.77 mM methanol conversion from the methane gas in a single spray run for 30 min, with a selectivity of 19.2% compared with all other oxygenated species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Song
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Chanbasha Basheer
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Song X, Basheer C, Xia Y, Li J, Abdulazeez I, Al-Saadi AA, Mofidfar M, Suliman MA, Zare RN. One-step Formation of Urea from Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen Using Water Microdroplets. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:25910-25916. [PMID: 37966066 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c10784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Water (H2O) microdroplets are sprayed onto a graphite mesh covered with a CuBi2O4 coating using a 1:1 mixture of N2 and CO2 as the nebulizing gas. The resulting microdroplets contain urea [CO(NH2)2] as detected by both mass spectrometry and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance. This gas-liquid-solid heterogeneous catalytic system synthesizes urea in one step on the 0.1 ms time scale. The conversion rate reaches 2.7 mmol g-1 h-1 at 25 °C and 12.3 mmol g-1 h-1 at 65 °C, with no external voltage applied. Water microdroplets serve as the hydrogen source and the electron transfer medium for N2 and CO2 in contact with CuBi2O4. Water-gas and water-solid contact electrification are speculated to drive the reaction process. This strategy couples N2 fixation and CO2 utilization in an ecofriendly process to produce urea, converting a greenhouse gas into a value-added product.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Song
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Chanbasha Basheer
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Juan Li
- School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Ismail Abdulazeez
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz A Al-Saadi
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Mofidfar
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Mohammed Altahir Suliman
- Chemistry Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Richard N Zare
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|