Home >> Research Overview >> Research by Faculty Member >> Will Medlin
Medlin Research Group
Mechanism of electrocatalytic oxygen reduction
Intermediates in electrochemical oxygen reduction |
The wide-scale implementation of economical proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology is limited in part by the activity of catalysts which facilitate the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen to produce water. Catalysts currently utilized at the fuel cell cathode÷where O2 reduction takes place÷are associated in particular with major cell efficiency losses and high materials costs. The most effective pure metal for O2 reduction is Pt, and recent studies have indicated that Pt alloys show enhanced performance. Relatively little is known about the molecular-level mechanism of O2 reduction on Pt surfaces under relevant electrochemical conditions, and reasons for the improved efficiency of particular Pt alloy compositions have not been explained. By acquiring a better understanding of key steps in the O2 reduction process on Pt, and determining how these steps are affected by alloying, it is possible to develop a rational basis from which to pursue improved catalyst designs.
We are studying the mechanism for O2 reduction using a combined theoretical model approach. (Our investigations are primarily considering the initial surface steps in the O2 reduction reaction, with a particular focus on identifying the mechanism by which incorporation of an EDL alters O2-surface interactions.)
Research Personnel:
Matt Hyman
Other areas of research in the Medlin Research Group:
|
