Abstract:

Our research endeavors are rooted to the premise that advances in

electrochemical technology emanate from advances in electrochemical

surface science. (Minimal) theory and (maximal) experimentation

characterize our studies. The computational work makes use of

first-principles density functional theory. The experimental strategies

rely on the integration of electrochemistry with surface spectroscopy.

Techniques available in the Center for Electrochemical Systems and the

Electrochemical Surface Science Laboratory include: scanning tunneling

microscopy, atomic-force microscopy, low energy electron diffraction,

Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high

resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy, differential electrochemical

mass spectrometry, low-energy ion scattering spectroscopy and thin-layer

electrochemistry. We have also availed of the National Synchrotron Light

Source at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Projects currently under

investigation include: the surface science of electrocatalysis;

electrochemistry of nanostructured interfaces; electrode-surface

organometallic chemistry; and mixed-metal electrocatalysts for fuel cell

applications. We are also active in collaborative projects:

electrocatalysis at active-site analogues of hydrogenase enzymes; Pt-Co

alloys for oxygen-reduction electrocatalysis, surface redox capacity and

cellular toxicity of nanoparticles, interfacial chemistry of the Grignard

reaction; metal-hydrides for hydrogen storage; electrochemical

nanomachining; and megawatt battery systems. The seminar will primarily be

on the surface science of (palladium) electrocatalysis.