Water Splitting

Activity Descriptors for Oxygen Evolution Reaction. Water splitting is an important technology for the future energy infrastructure and the chemical industry due to its ability to produce clean hydrogen. However, the efficiency of this process is limited by the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).

Through systematic studies of cobalt-based OER catalysts of different morphologies, crystal structures, and compositions (Figure 1), Co³⁺ concentration and Ni substitution were determined to be critical for OER activity, as confirmed using spectroscopic and electrochemical methods, and a synchrotron-based technique. Based on these activity descriptors, I synthesized a nickel-cobalt oxyhydroxide catalyst with OER activity comparable to the state-of-the-art materials. I have also investigated the activities of cerium-modified copper oxides, and hematite nanoplates for OER catalysis in alkaline conditions. My experience in using a comprehensive suite of analytical tools towards establishing catalyst design principles has given me a strong foundation for my future research in rational materials development. In addition, cerium-modified copper oxide and hematite nanoplates were also synthesized and investigated in my previous research.