Operando (and ex situ) XAS of oxide electrocatalysts​

The increased interest in electrochemical energy-storage/conversion systems such as metal-air batteries, fuel cells, and electrolyzers arising from the interest in electrification of energy supply and distribution has motivated many studies of oxygen reduction and evolution reaction (ORR and OER) and CO₂ reduction (CO2RR) oxide electrocatalysts. The development of more efficient and stable materials is a critical step for the final introduction of these devices in the market. Understanding the mechanism at such complex materials requires direct information regarding the changes in the orbital occupancy of the active sites that can only be achieved using operando characterization techniques. In this talk, we will explore how X-ray based techniques such as X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES), extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) and X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES) can lead the way to materials’ fundamental understanding.

Biography

Veronica completed her PhD at “Instituto de Carboquímica (CSIC)” (public research Centre belonging to the Spanish National Research Council) devoted to developing new carbon materials with tuneable physical and chemical properties as electrocatalyst supports, as well as the design of electrocatalysts for the anode side of low temperature fuel cells.  She joined Bristol University in 2013 as a Royal Society Newton International Fellow, and then held postdoctoral positions at Bristol University and University College London. In 2018, she joined Diamond Light Source as a Beamline Scientist of B18, the core XAFS beamline in the UK’s national synchrotron.

Veronica’s research activities are focused on the synthesis, characterization and reactivity/performance analysis of materials for catalysis and electrochemical energy conversion. More specifically, she is interested in the characterization and understanding of materials with application in catalysis, electrochemical sciences, fuel cells and solar technology. She is highly enthusiastic about the opportunities that this research field provides, especially at the interface between materials chemistry, catalysis and X-ray techniques.

View a recording of the presentation below: