Study of Prussian Blue analog nanowire properties for water oxidation

Abstract

The world energetic matrix was developed using fossil fuels as its main source. Although they are relatively inexpensive and there is a correlation between increased emission of greenhouses gases and global warming. In this scenario, it is necessary to replace the current energy matrix by technologies that are sustainable. The use of hydrogen (H2) has been highlighted on the world stage because it produces sustainable and clean energy since the only product of its reaction is water. However, much of the world's production of H2 (about 95%) still comes from the use of fossil fuels. An alternative to eliminating this problem is to produce H2 from the water splitting process. The major limitation of this process is the water oxidation step that has slow kinetics and is not thermodynamically favorable, requiring the use of catalysts. In this project, we aim to develop catalysts with controlled morphological structures based on Prussian Blue cobalt analogs for applications in water oxidation reaction studies. In this sense, we are looking for to explore and study catalysts with different morphologies and how morphological control influences the electrocatalytic performance in the water oxidation process. Thus, we will synthesize nanostructured catalysts such as nanocubes, hollow nanocubes, and nanowires and we will compare their activity. After this, the samples will be calcined at different temperatures leading to the formation of cobalt oxide with different crystalline structures. We have planned to investigate how cyanide vacancy change de properties of the catalyst during the water oxidation processes. As a result, we expect to make significant advances in the field of water oxidation and clean energy production. In addition, we would like to publish high impact scientific papers and patents. Finally, we expect a high level of professional and academic development for the candidate of submitted project. (AU)