Investigation of plasmon enhanced ethanol electro-oxidation by AuRh catalyst: in situ and theoretical studies

Abstract

Ethanol is a promising renewable fuel, as it is non-toxic, biomass derived, of easy transportation and storage, carbon neutral, and has a high energy density if completely oxidized to CO2. Aiming at the synthesis of a highly active and selective catalyst for ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), several approaches have been explored. Among them, rational design and plasmonic properties play a key role in the development of new catalyst with unique properties. Hence, in this research project, we aim to evaluate the ethanol oxidation catalytic performance of a promising plasmonic catalyst comprised of rational designed bimetallic nanoparticles, which have gold in the nucleus and a dendritic rhodium shell. These nanostructures have been supported in Carbon Vulcan® for further electrochemical application. We intend to realize in situ Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) studies for a systematical investigation of the reaction mechanism and catalytic properties of gold-rhodium nanostructures under light irradiation. Moreover, we intend to combine experimental and theoretical studies, performing computational simulations to achieve a deep understanding of the nanostructure plasmonic and catalytic properties. We expect to acquire more insights into EOR mechanism under light incidence as well. (AU)