Voltammetry plays a crucial role in modern scientific research by offering valuable insights into the electrochemical properties of materials, with wide-ranging applications in fields such as... Show moreVoltammetry plays a crucial role in modern scientific research by offering valuable insights into the electrochemical properties of materials, with wide-ranging applications in fields such as materials science, energy storage, corrosion studies, and sensor development.Gold, known for its exceptional inertness, provides a unique platform for studying intricate electrochemical processes due to its stability and slow electrochemical behavior. However, certain questions regarding gold voltammetry have remained unresolved throughout history. To address these gaps, our research employed a combination of electrochemical cyclic voltammetry and advanced in situ techniques like surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), Rotating ring-disk electrode (RRDE), and Electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM).Through our investigations, we not only redefined the mechanism of gold oxide formation but also uncovered the reasons behind the structural reconstruction of gold oxide. Additionally, we elucidated the electrochemical interfacial structure on gold from a novel perspective focusing on charge distribution.The significance of these findings lies in their fundamental nature, with the potential to inspire researcher to reconsider interpretations of voltammetry behaviors across various materials and research fields. We anticipate that our work will stimulate further exploration and innovation in the realm of electrochemistry, paving the way for new discoveries and advancements. Show less
To design the ideal water oxidation catalyst, understanding of the catalytic mechanism and decomposition pathways is essential. The aim of the research described in this thesis is to provide... Show moreTo design the ideal water oxidation catalyst, understanding of the catalytic mechanism and decomposition pathways is essential. The aim of the research described in this thesis is to provide mechanistic insight on the water oxidation reaction catalyzed by homogeneous electrocatalysts and topostulate design criteria for the ideal water oxidation catalyst. Show less
Sustainable energy from wind and solar is most readily available near the sea. Seawater electrolysis would thus be a highly promising method for intermittently storing surplus electricity from... Show moreSustainable energy from wind and solar is most readily available near the sea. Seawater electrolysis would thus be a highly promising method for intermittently storing surplus electricity from these sources, in the form of hydrogen. Unfortunately, the direct use of seawater in electrolysers brings with it a selectivity problem, caused by the chloride salts in such water. Instead of forming oxygen at the anode, which is environmentally harmless and thus the desired product, the formation of toxic chlorine becomes possible in seawater, and this reaction has to be avoided. This thesis is focussed on how the anodic evolution of oxygen and chlorine compete, and how selectivity between these two reactions may be optimized for the benefit of seawater electrolysis, and electrocatalysis in general. Show less
