Inorganic-Electrochemistry Seminar

Our research develops laser-enabled synthesis and fabrication strategies to engineer inorganic nanocatalysts and catalytic electrodes with precisely controlled surface species, providing the basis for mechanistic elucidation of electrocatalytic processes within the electrode microenvironment. Surfactant-free, laser-synthesized [NiFe]-layered double hydroxide nanocatalysts supported on hydrophilized, high-surface-area carbon electrodes selectively electrooxidize toluene to benzyl alcohol with unprecedented conversion yield by harnessing solvation environments characterized by strong hydrogen-bonding networks. Beyond hydrocarbon electrooxidation, we have achieved complete defluorination of various per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aqueous electrolytes. Our findings reveal that the synergistic effects of high lithium and hydroxide ion concentrations, combined with tailored pulsed electrolysis, prevent anode fouling by generated fluoride and thereby enable efficient fluorine elementalization from persistent PFAS pollutants.

The overarching goal of our research is to advance the design and fabrication of nanocatalysts for the electrocatalyticgeneration of reactive species from water for sustainable applications. Grounded in atomistic insight into catalyst materials, electrode microenvironments, and reaction mechanisms, the ultimate aim is to enable scalable and environmentally friendly solutions for chemical manufacturing and aqueous PFAS remediation.