(167e) Using in-Situ Synchrotron Characterization Methods to Understand Structure/Function Relationships for Catalytic Nanomaterials

The ability to probe the atomic-scale structure of catalytic nanomaterials allows for eventually development of structure/function relationships. Such fundamental structural knowledge is paramount for the future design of new catalytic materials with emergent properties, as trail-and-error approaches have limited recent technological progress. As such, routes toward new catalysts using rational design strategies are needed. In particular, the ability to examine atomic-scale structure during catalytic reactions further enriches the ability to design new materials, as new structural motifs may be present under reactions conditions that are not observable either as-synthesized or post-reaction.

In an effort to uncover key structural motifs during catalytic reactions, this talk will summarize recent efforts using in-situ synchrotron X-ray characterization capabilities to establish structure/function relationships. Specific synchrotron techniques of choice include X-ray absorption spectroscopy and high-energy X-ray diffraction, as both methods probe atomic-scale structure under different mechanisms and provide complimentary atomic-scale information. Best practices for in-situ cells developed for electrocatalysis, thermal catalysis, and surface deposition techniques will be discussed along with examples showcasing the importance of design parameters and the value of the obtained experimental data. Overall, this talk will illustrate the need to use synchrotron characterization to reveal structural changes that occur during catalytic processes that provide the requisite fundamental knowledge needed for future catalyst development.