This dissertation focused on computational methods based on first principles calculations using the Density Functional Theory (DFT) framework. Emphasis was laid on affordable methods that can... Show moreThis dissertation focused on computational methods based on first principles calculations using the Density Functional Theory (DFT) framework. Emphasis was laid on affordable methods that can provide a tradeoff between computational expense and accuracy. Specifically, we investigated solvation effects near the surface of the electrode, used thermodynamic cycles to compute solution-phase energies and also proposed a workflow to detect gas-phase errors on the free energies of target molecules. We used these simple methods to study complex adsorption processes at the PdMLPt(111) electrode surface. DFT and experimental studies (performed by Dr. Chen from our group) were crucial to guide the investigation forward. Show less
The electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is an essential half-reaction for the utilization of hydrogen as a sustainable fuel, via the conversion of hydrogen to electrons and protons... Show moreThe electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is an essential half-reaction for the utilization of hydrogen as a sustainable fuel, via the conversion of hydrogen to electrons and protons facilitated by the ORR. In the most common fuel cells, the ORR is requires high loadings of non-abundant platinum based catalysts. Inspired by Laccase, a multicopper oxidase able to perform the ORR at a low overpotential, copper complexes have become interesting targets as non-precious metal catalysts for the ORR.In this thesis, the ORR performance of molecular copper catalysts and the involved catalytic mechanisms have been investigated. The previously undetermined electrocatalytic mechanism for the ORR by the Cu(tmpa) copper complex was elucidated. Hydrogen peroxide was shown to play an important role in the catalytic cycle as a reaction intermediate. This has interesting implications for the sustainable electrochemical production of hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, the reduction of hydrogen peroxide shows striking similarities with Fenton-like reactions observed in copper containing enzymes. Finally, the performance of several different copper electrocatalysts for the reduction of oxygen and hydrogen peroxide was investigated and compared. Show less
Molecular complexes can be used as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction, water oxidation, and/or hydrogen peroxide production. However, in situ degradation of these catalyst is a major issue. This... Show moreMolecular complexes can be used as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction, water oxidation, and/or hydrogen peroxide production. However, in situ degradation of these catalyst is a major issue. This dissertations describes the analysis of degradation processes as well as the performance of various molecular electrocatalysts. In addition, complexes have been structurally modified to perform structure-activity studies that could to mechanistic insight. In addition, it is described how molecular catalysts can be beneficial to heterogeneous electrocatalysis as well. Show less
