This thesis describes the results of the fundamental research on the electro-oxidation of ethanol. In addition, the oxidation of intermediates in the ethanol electro-oxidation reaction, such as... Show moreThis thesis describes the results of the fundamental research on the electro-oxidation of ethanol. In addition, the oxidation of intermediates in the ethanol electro-oxidation reaction, such as acetaldehyde and adsorbed CO, has also been studied. The goal of this research is to provide deeper insight into the molecular level understanding of the mechanism, and how various operational parameters affect this mechanism. With these insights, the development of low temperature direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFC) can be advanced, since, ultimately, the goal of fundamental catalysis research is the rational design of new catalysts, for which the understanding of molecular mechanisms is of essential importance. The mechanism of the electro-oxidation reaction is investigated using electrochemical techniques, such as cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry, as well as in situ characterization techniques, such as surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and online electrochemical mass spectrometry (OLEMS). Show less
