Research Overview
Our research group is particularly interested in the synthesis of advanced energy materials and nanostructures based on understanding the fundamental topic of structural growth that will enable the rational control of material shape, composition, and corresponding their functionality.
Our primary objective is to develop cutting-edge catalysts for vital (electro)catalytic reactions including hydrogen production. To achieve these goals, we integrate a variety of scientific disciplines and employ the latest characterization techniques.
Catalyst Synthesis
Our research focuses on developing state-of-the-art synthesis methods using wet-chemistry to precisely control the surface atomic structure, composition, and shape of nanocatalysts.
Additionally, our methods enable precise control of surface atomic structure, composition and morphology of nanocatalysts, allowing us to tailor materials for specific applications in catalysis, energy storage, and environmental remediation.
These advances not only enhance our fundamental understanding of nanocatalyst growth but also pave the way for designing next-generation nanomaterials with superior functionality and efficiency in various technological applications
References
1) "Ultrathin holey Pt-M alloy nanosheets via sequential kinetic-thermodynamic metal reduction control" ACS Catal. 2024, 14, 3756-3765.
2) "Plasmonic Nanocrystal Assembly–Semiconductor Hybrids for Boosting Visible to Near-Infrared Photocatalysis" ACS Nano, 2023, 17, 18641-18651.
3) "Surface Engineering of Palladium Nanocrystals: Decoupling the Activity of Different Surface Sites on Nanocrystal Catalysts" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2022, 61, e202202923.
Electrocatalysis
(for hydrogen and valuable products)
Nanoparticles and nanocrystals have been widely employed as catalysts in various electrocatalytic reactions. However, merely reducing particle size to the nanoscale doesn’t automatically result in enhanced catalytic performance. Achieving a breakthrough in electrocatalysis involves the precise tuning of nanocatalyst composition, morphology, and surface electronic structure. Additionally, identifying and developing unique nanostructures that are highly efficient for specific reactions can provide deeper scientific insights and lead to improved catalytic activity. Our group is currently focused on synthesizing nanocatalysts optimized for diverse reactions aimed at sustainable energy production.
References
1) "Ultrathin holey Pt-M alloy nanosheets via sequential kinetic-thermodynamic metal reduction control" ACS Catal. 2024, 14, 3756-3765.
2) "Crystal Phase and B-Content Dependent Electrochemical Behavior of Pd-B Nanocrystals toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction" Small
3) "On the Role of Surface Strain at Nanocrystalline Pt{110} Facets in Oxygen Reduction Catalysis" Nano Lett. 2022. 22, 9115-9121.
