(669b) How the Electrochemical Medium Influences Surface Catalytic Activity

Electrocatalytic processes have gained increasing attention as a means to store intermittent energy from renewable sources and to produce sustainable chemicals. Understanding the activity of electrocatalysts has traditionally been based on an analysis of interactions between an electrode surface and adsorbed reaction intermediates. However, it has become increasingly apparent that the medium surrounding active sites can have a significant influence on surface chemistry. The presence of electrolyte ions and a liquid solvent can strongly impact measured rates, but a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying these effects is lacking. Here, we will discuss the results of combined experimental and computational studies that add to our understanding of how electrolyte species influence surface reactivity for critical electrocatalytic processes. These findings may help broaden our understanding of catalysis in complex media and may help in the design of electrocatalytic materials beyond their active sites.