Descripción del proyecto
Resolución de la relación entre estructura y estabilidad en electrocatalizadores a escala atómica
Las tecnologías del hidrógeno y las pilas de combustible podrían favorecer la transición a un sistema energético limpio e hipocarbónico. La electrólisis de agua es un método ecológico para producir hidrógeno y cuya eficacia y competitividad radica en el uso de electrocatalizadores muy estables. La débil estabilidad de los electrocatalizadores, junto con su baja abundancia y distribución geográfica heterogénea, representa un obstáculo para lograr un método más sostenible de almacenamiento y generación de electricidad. El objetivo del proyecto 123STABLE, financiado con fondos europeos, es profundizar en la relación entre la estructura y la estabilidad de los catalizadores de las reacciones electroquímicas. La combinación de métodos de alta sensibilidad, hasta el nivel de picogramo, con la microscopia a escala subatómica proporcionarán conocimientos a escala atómica sobre la corrosión y la reconstrucción de metales nobles en entornos electroquímicos.
Objetivo
In the last decades, significant progress has been made on understanding and controlling solid/liquid electrochemical interfaces at atomic levels. As the principles guiding the activity of electrochemical reactions are quite well established (structure-activity relationships), the fundamentals of stability are still poorly understood (structure-stability relationships). 123STABLE proposes to employ (1) identical location, (2) online monitoring and (3) modeling of noble metals based nanoparticles changes with the state-of-the-art electron microscopy equipment and online dissolution and evolution analytics using electrochemical flow cell coupled to online mass spectrometers. Projects unique methodology approach with picogram sensitivity levels, in combination with sub-atomic scale microscopy insights and simulations, promises novel atomistic insights into the corrosion and reconstruction of noble metals in electrochemical environments. This unique approach is based on observations of the same nanoparticles before and after electrochemical treatment where weak and stable atomic features and events can be recognized, followed, understood and finally utilized. Upon (1) doping, (2) decoration and/or (3) other synthetic modification of nanoparticles like a change in size and shape further stabilization is envisioned. For instance, blockage of nanoparticle vulnerable defected sites like steps or kinks by more noble metal could stop or significantly slow down their degradation.
The 123STABLE project will feature platinum- and iridium-based nanostructures as a model system to introduce a unique “123” approach, as they still possess the best electrocatalytic properties for the future electrification of society through the Hydrogen economy. However, their electrochemical stability is still not sufficient. Coupled with the fact that their supply is hindered by extremely scarce, rare and uneven geological distribution, the increase in their stability is of immense importance.
Ámbito científico
Palabras clave
Programa(s)
Régimen de financiación
ERC-STG - Starting GrantInstitución de acogida
1000 Ljubljana
Eslovenia