1
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Nhat Hang NT, Yang Y, Phuc LH, Tri NH, Van Cuu H, Long NV. Shape-controlled synthesis of micro-/nanosized Cu particles with spherical and polyhedral shapes using the polyol process. RSC Adv 2024; 14:22403-22407. [PMID: 39010919 PMCID: PMC11247615 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra03643c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
This study reports the synthesis of Cu micro-/nanosized particles through the polyol process. Cu particles were synthesized by reducing copper(ii) chloride in ethylene glycol (EG), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and potassium bromide (KBr) at low temperatures with or without the use of sodium borohydride (NaBH4).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thi Nhat Hang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Thu Dau Mot University 6 Tran Van On, Phu Hoa Ward Thu Dau Mot City 820000 Vietnam
| | - Yong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of High-Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructures, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences 1295 Dingxi Road Shanghai 200050 China
| | - Le Hong Phuc
- National Institute of Applied Mechanics and Informatics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology 291 Dien Bien Phu Ho Chi Minh City 700000 Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Huu Tri
- Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Saigon University 273 An Duong Vuong, District 5 Ho Chi Minh City 700000 Vietnam
| | - Ho Van Cuu
- Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Saigon University 273 An Duong Vuong, District 5 Ho Chi Minh City 700000 Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Viet Long
- Department of Electronics and Telecommunications, Saigon University 273 An Duong Vuong, District 5 Ho Chi Minh City 700000 Vietnam
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2
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Zhang J, Xia S, Wang Y, Wu J, Wu Y. Recent advances in dynamic reconstruction of electrocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction. iScience 2024; 27:110005. [PMID: 38846002 PMCID: PMC11154216 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrocatalysts undergo structural evolution under operating electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) conditions. This dynamic reconstruction correlates with variations in CO2RR activity, selectivity, and stability, posing challenges in catalyst design for electrochemical CO2RR. Despite increased research on the reconstruction behavior of CO2RR electrocatalysts, a comprehensive understanding of their dynamic structural evolution under reaction conditions is lacking. This review summarizes recent developments in the dynamic reconstruction of catalysts during the CO2RR process, covering fundamental principles, modulation strategies, and in situ/operando characterizations. It aims to enhance understanding of electrocatalyst dynamic reconstruction, offering guidelines for the rational design of CO2RR electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfang Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Shuai Xia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Institute of Energy, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center (Anhui Energy Laboratory), Hefei 230009, China
| | - Jingjie Wu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Yucheng Wu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials and Devices of Anhui Province, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- China International S&T Cooperation Base for Advanced Energy and Environmental Materials & Anhui Provincial International S&T Cooperation Base for Advanced Energy Materials, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
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3
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Liu S, Li Y, Wang D, Xi S, Xu H, Wang Y, Li X, Zang W, Liu W, Su M, Yan K, Nielander AC, Wong AB, Lu J, Jaramillo TF, Wang L, Canepa P, He Q. Alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion in Cu electrocatalysts. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5080. [PMID: 38871724 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The reconstruction of Cu catalysts during electrochemical reduction of CO2 is a widely known but poorly understood phenomenon. Herein, we examine the structural evolution of Cu nanocubes under CO2 reduction reaction and its relevant reaction conditions using identical location transmission electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, in situ X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and ab initio molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest that Cu catalysts reconstruct via a hitherto unexplored yet critical pathway - alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion, when the electrode potential is more negative than an onset value (e.g., -0.4 VRHE when using 0.1 M KHCO3). Having alkali cations in the electrolyte is critical for such a process. Consequently, Cu catalysts will inevitably undergo surface reconstructions during a typical process of CO2 reduction reaction, resulting in dynamic catalyst morphologies. While having these reconstructions does not necessarily preclude stable electrocatalytic reactions, they will indeed prohibit long-term selectivity and activity enhancement by controlling the morphology of Cu pre-catalysts. Alternatively, by operating Cu catalysts at less negative potentials in the CO electrochemical reduction, we show that Cu nanocubes can provide a much more stable selectivity advantage over spherical Cu nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikai Liu
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Yuheng Li
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Shibo Xi
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road Jurong Island, Singapore, 627833, Singapore.
| | - Haoming Xu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Yulin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Xinzhe Li
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Wenjie Zang
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Weidong Liu
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Mengyao Su
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Katherine Yan
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Adam C Nielander
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Andrew B Wong
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore
| | - Jiong Lu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore
| | - Thomas F Jaramillo
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore.
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore.
| | - Pieremanuele Canepa
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore.
| | - Qian He
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore.
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore.
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4
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Wu H, Yu H, Chow YL, Webley PA, Zhang J. Toward Durable CO 2 Electroreduction with Cu-Based Catalysts via Understanding Their Deactivation Modes. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2403217. [PMID: 38845132 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The technology of CO2 electrochemical reduction (CO2ER) provides a means to convert CO2, a waste greenhouse gas, into value-added chemicals. Copper is the most studied element that is capable of catalyzing CO2ER to obtain multicarbon products, such as ethylene, ethanol, acetate, etc., at an appreciable rate. Under the operating condition of CO2ER, the catalytic performance of Cu decays because of several factors that alters the surface properties of Cu. In this review, these factors that cause the degradation of Cu-based CO2ER catalysts are categorized into generalized deactivation modes, that are applicable to all electrocatalytic systems. The fundamental principles of each deactivation mode and the associated effects of each on Cu-based catalysts are discussed in detail. Structure- and composition-activity relationship developed from recent in situ/operando characterization studies are presented as evidence of related deactivation modes in operation. With the aim to address these deactivation modes, catalyst design and reaction environment engineering rationales are suggested. Finally, perspectives and remarks built upon the recent advances in CO2ER are provided in attempts to improve the durability of CO2ER catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiwen Wu
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Haoming Yu
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Yuen-Leong Chow
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Paul A Webley
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Research Hub for Carbon Utilisation and Recycling, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Research Hub for Carbon Utilisation and Recycling, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
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5
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Chu YC, Chen KH, Tung CW, Chen HC, Wang J, Kuo TR, Hsu CS, Lin KH, Tsai LD, Chen HM. Dynamic (Sub)surface-Oxygen Enables Highly Efficient Carbonyl-Coupling for Electrochemical Carbon Dioxide Reduction. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400640. [PMID: 38621196 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Nowadays, high-valent Cu species (i.e., Cuδ +) are clarified to enhance multi-carbon production in electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Nonetheless, the inconsistent average Cu valence states are reported to significantly govern the product profile of CO2RR, which may lead to misunderstanding of the enhanced mechanism for multi-carbon production and results in ambiguous roles of high-valent Cu species. Dynamic Cuδ + during CO2RR leads to erratic valence states and challenges of high-valent species determination. Herein, an alternative descriptor of (sub)surface oxygen, the (sub)surface-oxygenated degree (κ), is proposed to quantify the active high-valent Cu species on the (sub)surface, which regulates the multi-carbon production of CO2RR. The κ validates a strong correlation to the carbonyl (*CO) coupling efficiency and is the critical factor for the multi-carbon enhancement, in which an optimized Cu2O@Pd2.31 achieves the multi-carbon partial current density of ≈330 mA cm-2 with a faradaic efficiency of 83.5%. This work shows a promising way to unveil the role of high-valent species and further achieve carbon neutralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Chiuan Chu
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hsu Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Wei Tung
- Center for Environmental Sustainability and Human Health, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei, 24301, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chien Chen
- Center for Reliability Science and Technologies, Center for Sustainability and Energy Tecnhologies, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Jiali Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Rong Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Precision Medicine and Translational Cancer Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Shuo Hsu
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsin Lin
- Material and Chemical Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Chutung, Hsinchu, 31040, Taiwan
| | - Li Duan Tsai
- Material and Chemical Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Chutung, Hsinchu, 31040, Taiwan
| | - Hao Ming Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Emerging Materials and Advanced Devices, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, 30076, Taiwan
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6
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Albertini PP, Newton MA, Wang M, Segura Lecina O, Green PB, Stoian DC, Oveisi E, Loiudice A, Buonsanti R. Hybrid oxide coatings generate stable Cu catalysts for CO 2 electroreduction. NATURE MATERIALS 2024; 23:680-687. [PMID: 38366155 PMCID: PMC11068572 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-024-01819-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Hybrid organic/inorganic materials have contributed to solve important challenges in different areas of science. One of the biggest challenges for a more sustainable society is to have active and stable catalysts that enable the transition from fossil fuel to renewable feedstocks, reduce energy consumption and minimize the environmental footprint. Here we synthesize novel hybrid materials where an amorphous oxide coating with embedded organic ligands surrounds metallic nanocrystals. We demonstrate that the hybrid coating is a powerful means to create electrocatalysts stable against structural reconstruction during the CO2 electroreduction. These electrocatalysts consist of copper nanocrystals encapsulated in a hybrid organic/inorganic alumina shell. This shell locks a fraction of the copper surface into a reduction-resistant Cu2+ state, which inhibits those redox processes responsible for the structural reconstruction of copper. The electrocatalyst activity is preserved, which would not be possible with a conventional dense alumina coating. Varying the shell thickness and the coating morphology yields fundamental insights into the stabilization mechanism and emphasizes the importance of the Lewis acidity of the shell in relation to the retention of catalyst structure. The synthetic tunability of the chemistry developed herein opens new avenues for the design of stable electrocatalysts and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petru P Albertini
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Mark A Newton
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Min Wang
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Ona Segura Lecina
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Philippe B Green
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Dragos C Stoian
- Swiss-Norwegian Beamlines, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France
| | - Emad Oveisi
- Interdisciplinary Center for Electron Microscopy, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anna Loiudice
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Raffaella Buonsanti
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Sion, Switzerland.
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7
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Ávila-Bolívar B, Lopez Luna M, Yang F, Yoon A, Montiel V, Solla-Gullón J, Chee SW, Roldan Cuenya B. Revealing the Intrinsic Restructuring of Bi 2O 3 Nanoparticles into Bi Nanosheets during Electrochemical CO 2 Reduction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:11552-11560. [PMID: 38408369 PMCID: PMC10921375 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c18285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Bismuth is a catalyst material that selectively produces formate during the electrochemical reduction of CO2. While different synthesis strategies have been employed to create electrocatalysts with better performance, the restructuring of bismuth precatalysts during the reaction has also been previously reported. The mechanism behind the change has, however, remained unclear. Here, we show that Bi2O3 nanoparticles supported on Vulcan carbon intrinsically transform into stellated nanosheet aggregates upon exposure to an electrolyte. Liquid cell transmission electron microscopy observations first revealed the gradual restructuring of the nanoparticles into nanosheets in the presence of 0.1 M KHCO3 without an applied potential. Our experiments also associated the restructuring with solubility of bismuth in the electrolyte. While the consequent agglomerates were stable under moderate negative potentials (-0.3 VRHE), they dissolved over time at larger negative potentials (-0.4 and -0.5 VRHE). Operando Raman spectra collected during the reaction showed that under an applied potential, the oxide particles reduced to metallic bismuth, thereby confirming the metal as the working phase for producing formate. These results inform us about the working morphology of these electrocatalysts and their formation and degradation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio Lopez Luna
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Fengli Yang
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Aram Yoon
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Vicente Montiel
- Institute
of Electrochemistry, University of Alicante, Alicante 03690, Spain
| | - José Solla-Gullón
- Institute
of Electrochemistry, University of Alicante, Alicante 03690, Spain
| | - See Wee Chee
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, Berlin 14195, Germany
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8
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Pastor E, Lian Z, Xia L, Ecija D, Galán-Mascarós JR, Barja S, Giménez S, Arbiol J, López N, García de Arquer FP. Complementary probes for the electrochemical interface. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:159-178. [PMID: 38388837 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-024-00575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The functions of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices rely on the dynamic junction between a solid and a fluid: the electrochemical interface (EI). Many experimental techniques have been developed to probe the EI, but they provide only a partial picture. Building a full mechanistic understanding requires combining multiple probes, either successively or simultaneously. However, such combinations lead to important technical and theoretical challenges. In this Review, we focus on complementary optoelectronic probes and modelling to address the EI across different timescales and spatial scales - including mapping surface reconstruction, reactants and reaction modulators during operation. We discuss how combining these probes can facilitate a predictive design of the EI when closely integrated with theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Pastor
- CNRS, IPR (Institut de Physique de Rennes), University of Rennes, Rennes, France.
- CNRS, Univ Rennes, DYNACOM (Dynamical Control of Materials Laboratory) - IRL2015, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Zan Lian
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Lu Xia
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Ecija
- IMDEA Nanoscience, Campus Universitario de Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Ramón Galán-Mascarós
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Barja
- Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials, Centro de Física de Materiales (CFM), University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, San Sebastián, Spain
- Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), San Sebastián, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Sixto Giménez
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM) Universitat Jaume I, Castelló, Spain
| | - Jordi Arbiol
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Núria López
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
| | - F Pelayo García de Arquer
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.
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9
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Yao K, Li J, Ozden A, Wang H, Sun N, Liu P, Zhong W, Zhou W, Zhou J, Wang X, Liu H, Liu Y, Chen S, Hu Y, Wang Z, Sinton D, Liang H. In situ copper faceting enables efficient CO 2/CO electrolysis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1749. [PMID: 38409130 PMCID: PMC10897386 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45538-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The copper (Cu)-catalyzed electrochemical CO2 reduction provides a route for the synthesis of multicarbon (C2+) products. However, the thermodynamically favorable Cu surface (i.e. Cu(111)) energetically favors single-carbon production, leading to low energy efficiency and low production rates for C2+ products. Here we introduce in situ copper faceting from electrochemical reduction to enable preferential exposure of Cu(100) facets. During the precatalyst evolution, a phosphate ligand slows the reduction of Cu and assists the generation and co-adsorption of CO and hydroxide ions, steering the surface reconstruction to Cu (100). The resulting Cu catalyst enables current densities of > 500 mA cm-2 and Faradaic efficiencies of >83% towards C2+ products from both CO2 reduction and CO reduction. When run at 500 mA cm-2 for 150 hours, the catalyst maintains a 37% full-cell energy efficiency and a 95% single-pass carbon efficiency throughout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Yao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Jun Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Adnan Ozden
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Haibin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Ning Sun
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Pengyu Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Wen Zhong
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Jieshu Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xi Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Hanqi Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yongchang Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
- State Key Lab of Hydraulic Engineering Simulation and Safety, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300354, China
| | - Songhua Chen
- College of Chemistry and Material Science, Longyan University, Longyan, 364012, China
| | - Yongfeng Hu
- Sinopec Shanghai Research Institute of Petrochemical Technology, Shanghai, 201208, China
| | - Ziyun Wang
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
| | - David Sinton
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada.
| | - Hongyan Liang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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10
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Banerji LC, Jang H, Gardner AM, Cowan AJ. Studying the cation dependence of CO 2 reduction intermediates at Cu by in situ VSFG spectroscopy. Chem Sci 2024; 15:2889-2897. [PMID: 38404396 PMCID: PMC10882457 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05295h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The nature of the electrolyte cation is known to have a significant impact on electrochemical reduction of CO2 at catalyst|electrolyte interfaces. An understanding of the underlying mechanism responsible for catalytic enhancement as the alkali metal cation group is descended is key to guide catalyst development. Here, we use in situ vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy to monitor changes in the binding modes of the CO intermediate at the electrochemical interface of a polycrystalline Cu electrode during CO2 reduction as the electrolyte cation is varied. A CObridge mode is observed only when using Cs+, a cation that is known to facilitate CO2 reduction on Cu, supporting the proposed involvement of CObridge sites in CO coupling mechanisms during CO2 reduction. Ex situ measurements show that the cation dependent CObridge modes correlate with morphological changes of the Cu surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam C Banerji
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Hansaem Jang
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Adrian M Gardner
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Early Career Laser Laboratory, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Alexander J Cowan
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
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11
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Long C, Wan K, Chen Y, Li L, Jiang Y, Yang C, Wu Q, Wu G, Xu P, Li J, Shi X, Tang Z, Cui C. Steering the Reconstruction of Oxide-Derived Cu by Secondary Metal for Electrosynthesis of n-Propanol from CO. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:4632-4641. [PMID: 38340061 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c11359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
As fuel and an important chemical feedstock, n-propanol is highly desired in electrochemical CO2/CO reduction on Cu catalysts. However, the precise regulation of the Cu localized structure is still challenging and poorly understood, thus hindering the selective n-propanol electrosynthesis. Herein, by decorating Au nanoparticles (NPs) on CuO nanosheets (NSs), we present a counterintuitive transformation of CuO into undercoordinated Cu sites locally around Au NPs during CO reduction. In situ spectroscopic techniques reveal the Au-steered formation of abundant undercoordinated Cu sites during the removal of oxygen on CuO. First-principles accuracy molecular dynamic simulation demonstrates that the localized Cu atoms around Au tend to rearrange into disordered layer rather than a Cu (111) close-packed plane observed on bare CuO NSs. These Au-steered undercoordinated Cu sites facilitate CO binding, enabling selective electroreduction of CO into n-propanol with a high Faradaic efficiency of 48% in a flow cell. This work provides new insight into the regulation of the oxide-derived catalysts reconstruction with a secondary metal component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Long
- Molecular Electrochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China
| | - Kaiwei Wan
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201204, P. R. China
| | - Lei Li
- Molecular Electrochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China
| | - Yuheng Jiang
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Caoyu Yang
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Qianbao Wu
- Molecular Electrochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China
| | - Guoling Wu
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Peng Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Jiong Li
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201204, P. R. China
| | - Xinghua Shi
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyong Tang
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Chunhua Cui
- Molecular Electrochemistry Laboratory, Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China
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12
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Cobb SJ, Rodríguez-Jiménez S, Reisner E. Connecting Biological and Synthetic Approaches for Electrocatalytic CO 2 Reduction. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202310547. [PMID: 37983571 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202310547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction has developed into a broad field, spanning fundamental studies of enzymatic 'model' catalysts to synthetic molecular catalysts and heterogeneous gas diffusion electrodes producing commercially relevant quantities of product. This diversification has resulted in apparent differences and a disconnect between seemingly related approaches when using different types of catalysts. Enzymes possess discrete and well understood active sites that can perform reactions with high selectivity and activities at their thermodynamic limit. Synthetic small molecule catalysts can be designed with desired active site composition but do not yet display enzyme-like performance. These properties of the biological and small molecule catalysts contrast with heterogeneous materials, which can contain multiple, often poorly understood active sites with distinct reactivity and therefore introducing significant complexity in understanding their activities. As these systems are being better understood and the continuously improving performance of their heterogeneous active sites closes the gap with enzymatic activity, this performance difference between heterogeneous and enzymatic systems begins to close. This convergence removes the barriers between using different types of catalysts and future challenges can be addressed without multiple efforts as a unified picture for the biological-synthetic catalyst spectrum emerges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Cobb
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | | | - Erwin Reisner
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
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13
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Liu Q, Jiang Q, Li L, Yang W. Spontaneous Reconstruction of Copper Active Sites during the Alkaline CORR: Degradation and Recovery of the Performance. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:4242-4251. [PMID: 38300828 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14129] [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
Understanding the reconstruction of electrocatalysts under operational conditions is essential for studying their catalytic mechanisms and industrial applications. Herein, using spatiotemporally resolved Raman spectroscopy with CO as a probe molecule, we resolved the spontaneous reconstruction of Cu active sites during cathodic CO reduction reactions (CORRs). Quasi-in situ focused ion beam transmission electron microscopy (FIB-TEM) revealed that under prolonged electrolysis, the Cu surface can reconstruct to form nanometer-sized Cu particles with (111)/(100) facets and abundant grain boundaries, which strongly favor the formation of an inactive *CObridge binding site and deteriorate the CORR performance. A short period of anodic oxidation can efficiently remove these reconstructed nanoparticles by quick dissolution of Cu, thus providing an effective strategy to regenerate the Cu catalysts and recover their CORR performance. This study provides real-time in situ observations of Cu reconstruction and changes in the binding of key reaction intermediates, highlighting the decisive role of the local active site, rather than the macroscopic morphology, on adsorption of key reaction intermediates and thus CORR performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiliang Liu
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
| | - Qike Jiang
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Physical Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling Li
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
| | - Wenxing Yang
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
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14
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Abdellah AM, Ismail F, Siig OW, Yang J, Andrei CM, DiCecco LA, Rakhsha A, Salem KE, Grandfield K, Bassim N, Black R, Kastlunger G, Soleymani L, Higgins D. Impact of palladium/palladium hydride conversion on electrochemical CO 2 reduction via in-situ transmission electron microscopy and diffraction. Nat Commun 2024; 15:938. [PMID: 38296966 PMCID: PMC10831057 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45096-3] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical conversion of CO2 offers a sustainable route for producing fuels and chemicals. Pd-based catalysts are effective for converting CO2 into formate at low overpotentials and CO/H2 at high overpotentials, while undergoing poorly understood morphology and phase structure transformations under reaction conditions that impact performance. Herein, in-situ liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy and select area diffraction measurements are applied to track the morphology and Pd/PdHx phase interconversion under reaction conditions as a function of electrode potential. These studies identify the degradation mechanisms, including poisoning and physical structure changes, occurring in PdHx/Pd electrodes. Constant potential density functional theory calculations are used to probe the reaction mechanisms occurring on the PdHx structures observed under reaction conditions. Microkinetic modeling reveals that the intercalation of *H into Pd is essential for formate production. However, the change in electrochemical CO2 conversion selectivity away from formate and towards CO/H2 at increasing overpotentials is due to electrode potential dependent changes in the reaction energetics and not a consequence of morphology or phase structure changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Abdellah
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Fatma Ismail
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Oliver W Siig
- CatTheory, Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Carmen M Andrei
- Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Amirhossein Rakhsha
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kholoud E Salem
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kathryn Grandfield
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Nabil Bassim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Robert Black
- National Research Council of Canada, Energy, Mining, and Environment Research Centre, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Georg Kastlunger
- CatTheory, Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Leyla Soleymani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Engineering Physics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Drew Higgins
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
- Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
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15
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Yang JH, Hwang SY, Maeng JY, Park GE, Yang SY, Rhee CK, Sohn Y. Opening Direct Electrochemical Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis Path by Interfacial Engineering of Cu Electrode with P-Block Elements. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:3368-3387. [PMID: 38214573 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c15596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical synthesis of syngas (CO and H2) has garnered considerable attention in the context of Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis employing thermal catalysts. Nonetheless, the need for a novel, cost-effective technique persists. In this investigation, we introduce a direct electrochemical (dEC) approach for FT synthesis that functions under ambient conditions by utilizing a p-block element (Sn and In) overlaid Cu electrode. Surface *CO and H* species were obtained in an electrolytic medium through the CO2 + H+ + e- → HOOCad → *CO (or direct CO adsorption) and H+ + e- → H* reactions, respectively. We have observed C2-7 long-chain hydrocarbons with a CnH2n+2/CnH2n ratio of 1-3, and this observation can be explained through the process of C-C coupling chain growth of the conventional FT synthesis, based on the linearity of the Anderson-Schulz-Flory equation plots. Thick Sn and In overlayers resulted in the dominant production of formate, while CO and C2H4 production were found to be proportional and inversely correlated to H2, C2H6, and C3-7 hydrocarbon production. The EC CO2/CO reduction used in dEC FT synthesis offers valuable insights into the mechanism of C2+ production and holds promise as an eco-friendly approach to producing long-chain hydrocarbons for energy and environmental purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hyun Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Young Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Young Maeng
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Go Eun Park
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Young Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Kyun Rhee
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngku Sohn
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
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16
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Rettenmaier C, Herzog A, Casari D, Rüscher M, Jeon HS, Kordus D, Luna ML, Kühl S, Hejral U, Davis EM, Chee SW, Timoshenko J, Alexander DTL, Bergmann A, Cuenya BR. Operando insights into correlating CO coverage and Cu-Au alloying with the selectivity of Au NP-decorated Cu 2O nanocubes during the electrocatalytic CO 2 reduction. EES CATALYSIS 2024; 2:311-323. [PMID: 38222061 PMCID: PMC10782806 DOI: 10.1039/d3ey00162h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) is an attractive technology to reintegrate the anthropogenic CO2 back into the carbon cycle driven by a suitable catalyst. This study employs highly efficient multi-carbon (C2+) producing Cu2O nanocubes (NCs) decorated with CO-selective Au nanoparticles (NPs) to investigate the correlation between a high CO surface concentration microenvironment and the catalytic performance. Structure, morphology and near-surface composition are studied via operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, operando high-energy X-ray diffraction as well as quasi in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. These operando studies show the continuous evolution of the local structure and chemical environment of our catalysts during reaction conditions. Along with its alloy formation, a CO-rich microenvironment as well as weakened average CO binding on the catalyst surface during CO2RR is detected. Linking these findings to the catalytic function, a complex compositional interplay between Au and Cu is revealed in which higher Au loadings primarily facilitate CO formation. Nonetheless, the strongest improvement in C2+ formation appears for the lowest Au loadings, suggesting a beneficial role of the Au-Cu atomic interaction for the catalytic function in CO2RR. This study highlights the importance of site engineering and operando investigations to unveil the electrocatalyst's adaptations to the reaction conditions, which is a prerequisite to understand its catalytic behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Rettenmaier
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Antonia Herzog
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Daniele Casari
- Electron Spectrometry and Microscopy Laboratory (LSME), Institute of Physics (IPHYS), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Lausanne CH-1015 Switzerland
| | - Martina Rüscher
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Hyo Sang Jeon
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - David Kordus
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Mauricio Lopez Luna
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Stefanie Kühl
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Uta Hejral
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Earl M Davis
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - See Wee Chee
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Janis Timoshenko
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Duncan T L Alexander
- Electron Spectrometry and Microscopy Laboratory (LSME), Institute of Physics (IPHYS), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Lausanne CH-1015 Switzerland
| | - Arno Bergmann
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max-Planck Society Faradayweg 4-6 14195 Berlin Germany
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17
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Chee SW, Lunkenbein T, Schlögl R, Roldán Cuenya B. Operando Electron Microscopy of Catalysts: The Missing Cornerstone in Heterogeneous Catalysis Research? Chem Rev 2023; 123:13374-13418. [PMID: 37967448 PMCID: PMC10722467 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneous catalysis in thermal gas-phase and electrochemical liquid-phase chemical conversion plays an important role in our modern energy landscape. However, many of the structural features that drive efficient chemical energy conversion are still unknown. These features are, in general, highly distinct on the local scale and lack translational symmetry, and thus, they are difficult to capture without the required spatial and temporal resolution. Correlating these structures to their function will, conversely, allow us to disentangle irrelevant and relevant features, explore the entanglement of different local structures, and provide us with the necessary understanding to tailor novel catalyst systems with improved productivity. This critical review provides a summary of the still immature field of operando electron microscopy for thermal gas-phase and electrochemical liquid-phase reactions. It focuses on the complexity of investigating catalytic reactions and catalysts, progress in the field, and analysis. The forthcoming advances are discussed in view of correlative techniques, artificial intelligence in analysis, and novel reactor designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- See Wee Chee
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber Institute
of the Max-Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Lunkenbein
- Department
of Inorganic Chemistry, Fritz-Haber Institute
of the Max-Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Schlögl
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber Institute
of the Max-Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldán Cuenya
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber Institute
of the Max-Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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18
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Lai W, Qiao Y, Wang Y, Huang H. Stability Issues in Electrochemical CO 2 Reduction: Recent Advances in Fundamental Understanding and Design Strategies. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2306288. [PMID: 37562821 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2 RR) offers a promising approach to close the anthropogenic carbon cycle and store intermittent renewable energy in fuels or chemicals. On the path to commercializing this technology, achieving the long-term operation stability is a central requirement but still confronts challenges. This motivates to organize the present review to systematically discuss the stability issue of CO2 RR. This review starts from the fundamental understanding on the destabilization mechanisms of CO2 RR, with focus on the degradation of electrocatalyst and change of reaction microenvironment during continuous electrolysis. Subsequently, recent efforts on catalyst design to stabilize the active sites are summarized, where increasing atomic binding strength to resist surface reconstruction is highlighted. Next, the optimization of electrolysis system to enhance the operation stability by maintaining reaction microenvironment especially mitigating flooding and carbonate problems is demonstrated. The manipulation on operation conditions also enables to prolong CO2 RR lifespan through recovering catalytically active sites and mass transport process. This review finally ends up by indicating the challenges and future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchuan Lai
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, P. R. China
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yan Qiao
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Yanan Wang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Hongwen Huang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan, 410082, P. R. China
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19
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Kang Z, Zhang J, Guo X, Mao Y, Yang Z, Kankala RK, Zhao P, Chen AZ. Observing the Evolution of Metal Oxides in Liquids. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2304781. [PMID: 37635095 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Metal oxides with diverse compositions and structures have garnered considerable interest from researchers in various reactions, which benefits from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in determining their morphologies, phase, structural and chemical information. Recent breakthroughs have made liquid-phase TEM a promising imaging platform for tracking the dynamic structure, morphology, and composition evolution of metal oxides in solution under work conditions. Herein, this review introduces the recent advances in liquid cells, especially closed liquid cell chips. Subsequently, the recent progress including particle growth, phase transformation, self-assembly, core-shell nanostructure growth, and chemical etching are introduced. With the late technical advances in TEM and liquid cells, liquid-phase TEM is used to characterize many fundamental processes of metal oxides for CO2 reduction and water-splitting reactions. Finally, the outlook and challenges in this research field are discussed. It is believed this compilation inspires and stimulates more efforts in developing and utilizing in situ liquid-phase TEM for metal oxides at the atomic scale for different applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewen Kang
- Institute of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Biochemical Technology, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Junyu Zhang
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Laboratory and Equipment Management Department, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohua Guo
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Laboratory and Equipment Management Department, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Yangfan Mao
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Laboratory and Equipment Management Department, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Zhimin Yang
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Laboratory and Equipment Management Department, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Ranjith Kumar Kankala
- Institute of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Biochemical Technology, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Laboratory and Equipment Management Department, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
| | - Ai-Zheng Chen
- Institute of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Biochemical Technology, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, 361021, P. R. China
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20
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Zhang C, Eraky H, Tan S, Hitchcock A, Higgins D. In Situ Studies of Copper-Based CO 2 Reduction Electrocatalysts by Scanning Transmission Soft X-ray Microscopy. ACS NANO 2023; 17:21337-21348. [PMID: 37906612 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c05964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
A microfluidic-enabled electrochemical device has been developed to investigate electrochemically active nanomaterials under reaction conditions using in situ scanning transmission soft X-ray microscopy (STXM). In situ STXM measurements were conducted on electrodeposited Cu catalysts under electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2R) conditions. The study provides detailed, quantitative results about the changes in the morphology and chemical structure of the catalytic nanoparticles as a function of applied potentials. The deposited Cu nanoparticles initially contain both Cu(0) and Cu(I). As an increasingly cathodic potential is applied, the Cu(I) species gradually convert to Cu(0) over the potential range of +0.4 to 0 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (VRHE). During this process, Cu(I) particles of various sizes are converted to metallic Cu at different reaction rates and at slightly different potentials, indicating a degree of heterogeneity in the electrochemical response of discrete particles. At CO2R relevant potentials, only metallic Cu is observed, and the morphology of the particles is fairly stable within the spatial resolution limits of STXM (∼40 nm). We also report in situ STXM studies of a working electrode with relatively thick Cu-based electrodeposits. The spatially resolved chemical analysis identifies that Cu-oxide species can persist under CO2R conditions, but only when the catalytic nanoparticles are electronically isolated from the working electrode and therefore are catalytically irrelevant. In summary, in situ STXM is presented as a technique to gain advanced morphological and spatially resolved chemical structure insights into electrochemically active nanomaterials, which was used to provide improved understanding regarding Cu nanomaterial catalysts under CO2 reduction conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyang Zhang
- Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
- Chemistry & Chemical Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
| | - Haytham Eraky
- Chemistry & Chemical Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
| | - Shunquan Tan
- Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
| | - Adam Hitchcock
- Chemistry & Chemical Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
| | - Drew Higgins
- Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8S 4M1
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21
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Gong Y, He T. Gaining Deep Understanding of Electrochemical CO 2 RR with In Situ/Operando Techniques. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300702. [PMID: 37608449 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Electrocatalysis for CO2 conversion has been extensively studied to mitigate the energy shortage and environmental issues, which are gaining ever-increasing attention. However, the complicated CO2 reduction process and the dynamic evolution occurring on electrocatalyst surface make it hard to understand the catalytic mechanism. The development of advanced in situ/operando techniques intelligently coupled with electrochemical cells sheds light on the related study via capturing surface atomic rearrangement, tracing chemical state change of catalysts, monitoring the behavior of intermediates and products, and depicting microenvironment near the electrode surface. In this review, fundamentals of the state-of-the-art in situ/operando techniques are clarified first. Case studies on the in situ/operando techniques performed to probe the CO2 reduction reaction processes are then discussed in detail. Finally, conclusions and outlook on this field are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Gong
- CAS Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Tao He
- CAS Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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22
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Serfőző A, Csík GA, Kormányos A, Balog Á, Janáky C, Endrődi B. One-step electrodeposition of binder-containing Cu nanocube catalyst layers for carbon dioxide reduction. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:16734-16740. [PMID: 37814939 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr03834c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
To reach industrially relevant current densities in the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide, this process must be performed in continuous-flow electrolyzer cells, applying gas diffusion electrodes. Beyond the chemical composition of the catalyst, both its morphology and the overall structure of the catalyst layer are decisive in terms of reaction rate and product selectivity. We present an electrodeposition method for preparing coherent copper nanocube catalyst layers on hydrophobic carbon paper, hence forming gas diffusion electrodes with high coverage in a single step. This was enabled by the appropriate wetting of the carbon paper (controlled by the composition of the electrodeposition solution) and the use of a custom-designed 3D-printed electrolyzer cell, which allowed the deposition of copper nanocubes selectively on the microporous side of the carbon paper substrate. Furthermore, a polymeric binder (Capstone ST-110) was successfully incorporated into the catalyst layer during electrodeposition. The high electrode coverage and the binder content together result in an increased ethylene production rate during CO2 reduction, compared to catalyst layers prepared from simple aqueous solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Serfőző
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
| | - Gábor András Csík
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
| | - Attila Kormányos
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
| | - Ádám Balog
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
| | - Csaba Janáky
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
| | - Balázs Endrődi
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich Square 1, Szeged, H-6720 Hungary.
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23
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Iglesias van Montfort HP, Li M, Irtem E, Abdinejad M, Wu Y, Pal SK, Sassenburg M, Ripepi D, Subramanian S, Biemolt J, Rufford TE, Burdyny T. Non-invasive current collectors for improved current-density distribution during CO 2 electrolysis on super-hydrophobic electrodes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6579. [PMID: 37852966 PMCID: PMC10584973 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42348-6] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction of CO2 presents an attractive way to store renewable energy in chemical bonds in a potentially carbon-neutral way. However, the available electrolyzers suffer from intrinsic problems, like flooding and salt accumulation, that must be overcome to industrialize the technology. To mitigate flooding and salt precipitation issues, researchers have used super-hydrophobic electrodes based on either expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) gas-diffusion layers (GDL's), or carbon-based GDL's with added PTFE. While the PTFE backbone is highly resistant to flooding, the non-conductive nature of PTFE means that without additional current collection the catalyst layer itself is responsible for electron-dispersion, which penalizes system efficiency and stability. In this work, we present operando results that illustrate that the current distribution and electrical potential distribution is far from a uniform distribution in thin catalyst layers (~50 nm) deposited onto ePTFE GDL's. We then compare the effects of thicker catalyst layers (~500 nm) and a newly developed non-invasive current collector (NICC). The NICC can maintain more uniform current distributions with 10-fold thinner catalyst layers while improving stability towards ethylene (≥ 30%) by approximately two-fold.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mengran Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Erdem Irtem
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Maryam Abdinejad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Yuming Wu
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Santosh K Pal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Mark Sassenburg
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Davide Ripepi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Siddhartha Subramanian
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Jasper Biemolt
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas E Rufford
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas Burdyny
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology; 9 van der Maasweg, Delft, 2629HZ, the Netherlands.
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24
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Luo Q, Duan H, McLaughlin MC, Wei K, Tapia J, Adewuyi JA, Shuster S, Liaqat M, Suib SL, Ung G, Bai P, Sun S, He J. Why surface hydrophobicity promotes CO 2 electroreduction: a case study of hydrophobic polymer N-heterocyclic carbenes. Chem Sci 2023; 14:9664-9677. [PMID: 37736633 PMCID: PMC10510627 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc02658b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the use of polymer N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) to control the microenvironment surrounding metal nanocatalysts, thereby enhancing their catalytic performance in CO2 electroreduction. Three polymer NHC ligands were designed with different hydrophobicity: hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-NHC), hydrophobic polystyrene (PS-NHC), and amphiphilic block copolymer (BCP) (PEO-b-PS-NHC). All three polymer NHCs exhibited enhanced reactivity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) during CO2 electroreduction by suppressing proton reduction. Notably, the incorporation of hydrophobic PS segments in both PS-NHC and PEO-b-PS-NHC led to a twofold increase in the partial current density for CO formation, as compared to the hydrophilic PEO-NHC. While polymer ligands did not hinder ion diffusion, their hydrophobicity altered the localized hydrogen bonding structures of water. This was confirmed experimentally and theoretically through attenuated total reflectance surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulation, demonstrating improved CO2 diffusion and subsequent reduction in the presence of hydrophobic polymers. Furthermore, NHCs exhibited reasonable stability under reductive conditions, preserving the structural integrity of AuNPs, unlike thiol-ended polymers. The combination of NHC binding motifs with hydrophobic polymers provides valuable insights into controlling the microenvironment of metal nanocatalysts, offering a bioinspired strategy for the design of artificial metalloenzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Luo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Hanyi Duan
- Polymer Program, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | | | - Kecheng Wei
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University Providence Rhode Island 02912 USA
| | - Joseph Tapia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst Massachusetts 01003 USA
| | - Joseph A Adewuyi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Seth Shuster
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Maham Liaqat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Steven L Suib
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Gaël Ung
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
| | - Peng Bai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst Massachusetts 01003 USA
| | - Shouheng Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University Providence Rhode Island 02912 USA
| | - Jie He
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
- Polymer Program, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut Storrs CT 06269 USA
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25
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Yan T, Chen X, Kumari L, Lin J, Li M, Fan Q, Chi H, Meyer TJ, Zhang S, Ma X. Multiscale CO 2 Electrocatalysis to C 2+ Products: Reaction Mechanisms, Catalyst Design, and Device Fabrication. Chem Rev 2023; 123:10530-10583. [PMID: 37589482 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals, directly from CO2, could foster achievement of carbon neutral through an alternative electrical approach to the energy-intensive thermochemical industry for carbon utilization. Progress in this area, based on electrogeneration of multicarbon products through CO2 electroreduction, however, lags far behind that for C1 products. Reaction routes are complicated and kinetics are slow with scale up to the high levels required for commercialization, posing significant problems. In this review, we identify and summarize state-of-art progress in multicarbon synthesis with a multiscale perspective and discuss current hurdles to be resolved for multicarbon generation from CO2 reduction including atomistic mechanisms, nanoscale electrocatalysts, microscale electrodes, and macroscale electrolyzers with guidelines for future research. The review ends with a cross-scale perspective that links discrepancies between different approaches with extensions to performance and stability issues that arise from extensions to an industrial environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxiang Yan
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Lata Kumari
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jianlong Lin
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Minglu Li
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qun Fan
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Haoyuan Chi
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Thomas J Meyer
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Xinbin Ma
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin 300192, China
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26
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Qu J, Sui M, Li R. Recent advances in in-situ transmission electron microscopy techniques for heterogeneous catalysis. iScience 2023; 26:107072. [PMID: 37534164 PMCID: PMC10391733 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of heterogeneous catalytic reaction under working conditions has long been considered a "black box", which is mainly because of the difficulties in directly characterizing the structural changes of catalysts at the atomic level during catalytic reactions. The development of in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques offers opportunities for introducing a realistic chemical reaction environment in TEM, making it possible to uncover the mystery of catalytic reactions. In this article, we present a comprehensive overview of the application of in situ TEM techniques in heterogeneous catalysis, highlighting its utility for observing gas-solid and liquid-solid reactions during thermal catalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis. in situ TEM has a unique advantage in revealing the complex structural changes of catalysts during chemical reactions. Revealing the real-time dynamic structure during reaction processes is crucial for understanding the intricate relationship between catalyst structure and its catalytic performance. Finally, we present a perspective on the future challenges and opportunities of in situ TEM in heterogeneous catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangshan Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, The Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM-2011), Dalian 116023, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Manling Sui
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microstructure and Properties of Solids, Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Rengui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, The Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM-2011), Dalian 116023, China
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27
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Ding P, An H, Zellner P, Guan T, Gao J, Müller-Buschbaum P, Weckhuysen BM, van der Stam W, Sharp ID. Elucidating the Roles of Nafion/Solvent Formulations in Copper-Catalyzed CO 2 Electrolysis. ACS Catal 2023; 13:5336-5347. [PMID: 37123601 PMCID: PMC10127206 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c05235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Nafion ionomer, composed of hydrophobic perfluorocarbon backbones and hydrophilic sulfonic acid side chains, is the most widely used additive for preparing catalyst layers (CLs) for electrochemical CO2 reduction, but its impact on the performance of CO2 electrolysis remains poorly understood. Here, we systematically investigate the role of the catalyst ink formulation on CO2 electrolysis using commercial CuO nanoparticles as the model pre-catalyst. We find that the presence of Nafion is essential for achieving stable product distributions due to its ability to stabilize the catalyst morphology under reaction conditions. Moreover, the Nafion content and solvent composition (water/alcohol fraction) regulate the internal structure of Nafion coatings, as well as the catalyst morphology, thereby significantly impacting CO2 electrolysis performance, resulting in variations of C2+ product Faradaic efficiency (FE) by >3×, with C2+ FE ranging from 17 to 54% on carbon paper substrates. Using a combination of ellipsometry and in situ Raman spectroscopy during CO2 reduction, we find that such selectivity differences stem from changes to the local reaction microenvironment. In particular, the combination of high water/alcohol ratios and low Nafion fractions in the catalyst ink results in stable and favorable microenvironments, increasing the local CO2/H2O concentration ratio and promoting high CO surface coverage to facilitate C2+ production in long-term CO2 electrolysis. Therefore, this work provides insights into the critical role of Nafion binders and underlines the importance of optimizing Nafion/solvent formulations as a means of enhancing the performance of electrochemical CO2 reduction systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Ding
- Walter Schottky Institute and Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Hongyu An
- Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Philipp Zellner
- Walter Schottky Institute and Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Tianfu Guan
- Chair for Functional Materials, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Str. 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Jianyong Gao
- Walter Schottky Institute and Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Peter Müller-Buschbaum
- Chair for Functional Materials, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, James-Franck-Str. 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Heinz Maier-Leibnitz-Zentrum, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Bert M. Weckhuysen
- Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ward van der Stam
- Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ian D. Sharp
- Walter Schottky Institute and Physics Department, Technical University of Munich, Am Coulombwall 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
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28
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Time-resolved transmission electron microscopy for nanoscale chemical dynamics. Nat Rev Chem 2023; 7:256-272. [PMID: 37117417 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-023-00469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The ability of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to image a structure ranging from millimetres to Ångströms has made it an indispensable component of the toolkit of modern chemists. TEM has enabled unprecedented understanding of the atomic structures of materials and how structure relates to properties and functions. Recent developments in TEM have advanced the technique beyond static material characterization to probing structural evolution on the nanoscale in real time. Accompanying advances in data collection have pushed the temporal resolution into the microsecond regime with the use of direct-electron detectors and down to the femtosecond regime with pump-probe microscopy. Consequently, studies have deftly applied TEM for understanding nanoscale dynamics, often in operando. In this Review, time-resolved in situ TEM techniques and their applications for probing chemical and physical processes are discussed, along with emerging directions in the TEM field.
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29
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Wang X, Jiang Y, Mao K, Gong W, Duan D, Ma J, Zhong Y, Li J, Liu H, Long R, Xiong Y. Identifying an Interfacial Stabilizer for Regeneration-Free 300 h Electrochemical CO 2 Reduction to C 2 Products. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:22759-22766. [PMID: 36453117 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c11109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to produce high value-added hydrocarbons and oxygenates presents a sustainable and compelling approach toward a carbon-neutral society. However, uncontrollable migration of active sites during the electrochemical CO2RR limits its catalytic ability to simultaneously achieve high C2 selectivity and ultradurability. Here, we demonstrate that the generated interfacial CuAlO2 species can efficiently stabilize the highly active sites over the Cu-CuAlO2-Al2O3 catalyst under harsh electrochemical conditions without active sites regeneration for a long-term test. We show that this unique Cu-CuAlO2-Al2O3 catalyst exhibits ultradurable electrochemical CO2RR performance with an 85% C2 Faradaic efficiency for a 300 h test. Such a simple interfacial engineering design approach unveiled in this work would be adaptable to develop various ultradurable catalysts for industrial-scale electrochemical CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.,Institute of Energy, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, 350 Shushanhu Rd., Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Yawen Jiang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Keke Mao
- School of Energy and Environment Science, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243032, China
| | - Wanbing Gong
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Delong Duan
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yuan Zhong
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiawei Li
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Hengjie Liu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Ran Long
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yujie Xiong
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.,Institute of Energy, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, 350 Shushanhu Rd., Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
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30
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Wang W, Duan J, Liu Y, Zhai T. Structural Reconstruction of Catalysts in Electroreduction Reaction: Identifying, Understanding, and Manipulating. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2110699. [PMID: 35460124 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202110699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electroreduction transformation of small molecules (CO2 , N2 , and H2 O) into chemical feedstocks offers a promising approach to eliminate carbon emissions and harness renewable energy. Most cathodic catalysts often undergo structural transformation under operating electroreduction conditions. These structural reconstructions are reflected in changes in their catalytic activity. In-depth understanding of the change of active sites and influence parameters of reconstruction behaviors is an essential precondition for the design of highly efficient catalysts. Despite the previous achievements, comprehensive insight toward the structural evolution mechanism in cathodic catalysts, compared to anode ones, under reaction conditions is still lacking. Herein, an overview of structural reconstruction for cathodic catalysts in terms of fundamental mechanisms, reconstruction process, advanced characterizations, and influencing parameters is provided. On this basis, the typical strategies for manipulating the structural reconfiguration of catalysts are also explicitly discussed from the catalyst structure and working environment. By delivering the mechanism, strategies, insights, and techniques, this review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the structural reconstruction of cathodic catalysts in electroreduction reactions and future guidelines for their rational development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Junyuan Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Youwen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Tianyou Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
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31
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Lee SW, Jeon B, Lee H, Park JY. Hot Electron Phenomena at Solid-Liquid Interfaces. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:9435-9448. [PMID: 36194546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c02319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the role of energy dissipation and charge transfer under exothermic chemical reactions on metal catalyst surfaces is important for elucidating the fundamental phenomena at solid-gas and solid-liquid interfaces. Recently, many surface chemistry studies have been conducted on the solid-liquid interface, so correlating electronic excitation in the liquid-phase with the reaction mechanism plays a crucial role in heterogeneous catalysis. In this review, we introduce the detection principle of electron transfer at the solid-liquid interface by developing cutting-edge technologies with metal-semiconductor Schottky nanodiodes. The kinetics of hot electron excitation are well correlated with the reaction rates, demonstrating that the operando method for understanding nonadiabatic interactions is helpful in studying the reaction mechanism of surface molecular processes. In addition to the detection of hot electrons excited by a catalytic reaction, we highlight recent results on how the transfer of the hot electrons influences surface chemical and photoelectrochemical reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Woo Lee
- Department of Chemistry Education, Korea National University of Education (KNUE), Chungbuk28173, Republic of Korea
| | - Beomjoon Jeon
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomaterials and Chemical Reactions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyosun Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul04066, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Young Park
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomaterials and Chemical Reactions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
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32
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Yang Y, He A, Li H, Zou Q, Liu Z, Tao C, Du J. Operando Constructing Cu/Cu 2O Electrocatalysts for Efficient CO 2 Electroreduction to Ethanol: CO 2-Assisted Structural Evolution of Octahedral Cu 2O by Operando CV Activation. ACS Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c03833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
| | - Anbang He
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
| | - Hui Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
| | - Qian Zou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
| | - Zuohua Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control Chongqing University, NO.174 Shazheng Street Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing400044, China
| | - Changyuan Tao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control Chongqing University, NO.174 Shazheng Street Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing400044, China
| | - Jun Du
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing401331, China
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control Chongqing University, NO.174 Shazheng Street Rd., Shapingba, Chongqing400044, China
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33
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Bai X, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Ling C, Zhou Y, Wang J, Liu Y. Dynamic Stability of Copper Single-Atom Catalysts under Working Conditions. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:17140-17148. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c07178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowan Bai
- School of Physics, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
- Texas Materials Institute and Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Xunhua Zhao
- Texas Materials Institute and Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering (MIMSE) and Zhuhai MUST Science and Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Innovation Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Yehui Zhang
- School of Physics, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Chongyi Ling
- School of Physics, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yipeng Zhou
- School of Physics, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Jinlan Wang
- School of Physics, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yuanyue Liu
- Texas Materials Institute and Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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34
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Yoon A, Poon J, Grosse P, Chee SW, Cuenya BR. Iodide-mediated Cu catalyst restructuring during CO 2 electroreduction. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY. A 2022; 10:14041-14050. [PMID: 35872703 PMCID: PMC9255670 DOI: 10.1039/d1ta11089f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Catalyst restructuring during electrochemical reactions is a critical but poorly understood process that determines the underlying structure-property relationships during catalysis. In the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 (CO2RR), it is known that Cu, the most favorable catalyst for hydrocarbon generation, is highly susceptible to restructuring in the presence of halides. Iodide ions, in particular, greatly improved the catalyst performance of Cu foils, although a detailed understanding of the morphological evolution induced by iodide remains lacking. It is also unclear if a similar enhancement transfers to catalyst particles. Here, we first demonstrate that iodide pre-treatment improves the selectivity of hexagonally ordered Cu-island arrays towards ethylene and oxygenate products. Then, the morphological changes in these arrays caused by iodide treatment and during CO2RR are visualized using electrochemical transmission electron microscopy. Our observations reveal that the Cu islands evolve into tetrahedral CuI, which then become 3-dimensional chains of copper nanoparticles under CO2RR conditions. Furthermore, CuI and Cu2O particles re-precipitated when the samples are returned to open circuit potential, implying that iodide and Cu+ species are present within these chains. This work provides detailed insight into the role of iodide, and its impact on the prevailing morphologies that exist during CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aram Yoon
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society Berlin 14195 Germany
| | - Jeffrey Poon
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society Berlin 14195 Germany
| | - Philipp Grosse
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society Berlin 14195 Germany
| | - See Wee Chee
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society Berlin 14195 Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society Berlin 14195 Germany
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35
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Buckingham MA, Norton K, McNaughter PD, Whitehead G, Vitorica-Yrezabal I, Alam F, Laws K, Lewis DJ. Investigating the Effect of Steric Hindrance within CdS Single-Source Precursors on the Material Properties of AACVD and Spin-Coat-Deposited CdS Thin Films. Inorg Chem 2022; 61:8206-8216. [PMID: 35583220 PMCID: PMC9157504 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.2c00616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Cadmium sulfide (CdS)
is an important semiconductor for electronic
and photovoltaic applications, particularly when utilized as a thin
film for window layers in CdTe solar cells. Deposition of thin-film
CdS through the decomposition of single-source precursors is an attractive
approach due to the facile, low-temperature, and rapid nature of this
approach. Tailoring the precursor to affect the decomposition properties
is commonly employed to tune desirable temperatures of decomposition.
However, altering the precursor structure and the effect this has
on the nature of the deposited material is an area far less commonly
investigated. Here, we seek to investigate this by altering the ligands
around the Cd metal center to increase the steric hindrance of the
precursor and investigate the effect this has on the decomposition
properties and the properties of deposited thin-film CdS from these
precursors. For this, we report the synthesis of four CdS precursors
with xanthate and pyridyl ligands ([Cd(n-ethyl xanthate)2(3-methyl pyridine)2] [1], [Cd(n-ethyl xanthate)2(3,5-lutidine)2] [2], [(Cd2(isopropyl xanthate)4(3-methyl
pyridine)2)n] [3], and [Cd(isopropyl xanthate)2(3,5-lutidine)2] [4]). These single-source precursors for CdS were
fully characterized by elemental analysis, NMR spectroscopy, single-crystal
X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis. It was found
that even with subtle alterations in the xanthate (n-ethyl to isopropyl) and pyridine (3-methyl and 3,5-dimethyl) ligands,
a range of hexa-coordinate precursors were formed (two with cis configuration, one with trans configuration, and one
as a one-dimensional (1D) polymer). These four precursors were then
used in aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition (AACVD) and spin-coating
experiments to deposit eight thin films of CdS, which were characterized
by Raman spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron
microscopy. Comparative quantitative information concerning film thickness
and surface roughness was also determined by atomic force microscopy.
Finally, the optical properties of all thin films were characterized
by ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) absorption spectroscopy,
from which the band gap of each deposited film was determined to be
commensurate with that of bulk CdS (ca. 2.4 eV). Four single-source CdS precursors were
synthesized based
on a combination of xanthate- and pyridyl-derived ligands to investigate
increasing the steric hindrance of the precursor. Two cis, one trans, and one 1D polymer complexes were developed.
These precursors were then deposited as thin films through both spin
coating and aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition techniques,
and the morphology, film thickness, film surface roughness, particle
size distribution, and band gap energy were assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Buckingham
- Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
| | - Kane Norton
- Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
| | - Paul D McNaughter
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
| | - George Whitehead
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
| | | | - Firoz Alam
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
| | - Kristine Laws
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, U.K
| | - David J Lewis
- Department of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K
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36
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Timoshenko J, Bergmann A, Rettenmaier C, Herzog A, Arán-Ais RM, Jeon HS, Haase FT, Hejral U, Grosse P, Kühl S, Davis EM, Tian J, Magnussen O, Roldan Cuenya B. Steering the structure and selectivity of CO2 electroreduction catalysts by potential pulses. Nat Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1038/s41929-022-00760-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
AbstractConvoluted selectivity trends and a missing link between reaction product distribution and catalyst properties hinder practical applications of the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) for multicarbon product generation. Here we employ operando X-ray absorption and X-ray diffraction methods with subsecond time resolution to unveil the surprising complexity of catalysts exposed to dynamic reaction conditions. We show that by using a pulsed reaction protocol consisting of alternating working and oxidizing potential periods that dynamically perturb catalysts derived from Cu2O nanocubes, one can decouple the effect of the ensemble of coexisting copper species on the product distribution. In particular, an optimized dynamic balance between oxidized and reduced copper surface species achieved within a narrow range of cathodic and anodic pulse durations resulted in a twofold increase in ethanol production compared with static CO2RR conditions. This work thus prepares the ground for steering catalyst selectivity through dynamically controlled structural and chemical transformations.
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37
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Zhu C, Zhao S, Shi G, Zhang L. Structure-Function Correlation and Dynamic Restructuring of Cu for Highly Efficient Electrochemical CO 2 Conversion. CHEMSUSCHEM 2022; 15:e202200068. [PMID: 35166058 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202200068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The increasing global demand for sustainable energy sources and emerging environmental issues have pushed the development of energy conversion and storage technologies to the forefront of chemical research. Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2 ) conversion provides an attractive approach to synthesizing fuels and chemical feedstocks using renewable energy. On the path to deploying this technology, basic and applied scientific hurdles remain. Copper, as the only metal catalyst that is capable to produce C2+ fuels from CO2 reduction (CO2 R), still faces challenges in the improvement of electrosynthesis pathways for highly selective fuel production. In this regard, mechanistically understanding CO2 R on Cu-based electrocatalysts, particularly identifying the structure-function correlation, is crucial. Here, a broad view of the variable structural parameters and their complex interplay in CO2 R catalysis on Cu was given, with the purpose of providing deep insights and guiding the future rational design of CO2 R electrocatalysts. First, this Review described the progress and recent advances in the development of well-defined nanostructured catalysts and the mechanistic understanding on the influences from a particular structure of a catalyst, such as facet, defects, morphology, oxidation state, composition, and interface. Next, the in-situ dynamic restructuring of Cu was presented. The importance of operando characterization methods to understand the catalyst structure-sensitivity was also discussed. Finally, some perspectives on the future outlook for electrochemical CO2 R were offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyuan Zhu
- Department of Chemistry and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Siwen Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Guoshuai Shi
- Department of Chemistry and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Liming Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
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38
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Ni W, Yixiang Z, Yao Y, Wang X, Zhao R, Yang Z, Li X, Yan YM. Surface Reconstruction with a Sandwich-like C/Cu/C Catalyst for Selective and Stable CO 2 Electroreduction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:13261-13270. [PMID: 35258293 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c23662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
For the steady electroreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) to value-added chemicals with high efficiency, the uncontrollable surface reconstruction under highly reducing conditions is a critical issue in electrocatalyst design. Herein, we construct a catalyst model with a sandwich-like structure composed of highly reactive metallic Cu nanosheet that is confined in thin carbon layers (denoted as C/Cu/C nanosheet). The sandwich-like C/Cu/C nanosheet avoids the oxidation of the active site of metallic Cu at an ambient atmosphere owing to the protective coating of the carbon layer, which inhibits the surface reconstruction that occurs via the dissolution of copper oxides and redeposition of dissolved Cu ions. The as-prepared C/Cu/C nanosheet exhibits a prominent Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 47.8% for CH4 products at -1.0 V with a current density of 20.3 mA·cm-2 and stable production of CH4 during 12 h operation with negligible selectivity loss. Our findings provide an effective strategy of restraining surface reconstruction for the design of selective and stable electrocatalysts toward CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ni
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Aerospace Propulsion Institute, Beijing 100076 China
| | - Zhou Yixiang
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Yebo Yao
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxuan Wang
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhao
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyu Yang
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ming Yan
- State Key Lab of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
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