Understanding electrocatalysis at nanoscale electrodes and single atoms with operando vibrational spectroscopy

Electrocatalysis presents an environmentally benign route to carry out energy conversion reactions and organic trans-formations. The use of nanomaterials and single atoms as catalysts in electrochemical reactions has led to improvements in activity and selectivity over bulk electrocatalysts, however, optimal design of electrocatalytic reactions requires an in-depth understanding of the dynamic solid-liquid interface, re-action intermediates, and catalyst structural changes. Tracking bond breaking and formation events in real time is an important complement to catalyst characterization. This short review highlights advancements in fundamental understanding of electrocatalysis at nanoscale and single atom electrocatalysts obtained using operando vibrational spectroscopies. To push the boundaries of our fundamental understanding in electro-catalysis, we also emphasize a need to further develop oper-ando vibrational techniques to reduce ensemble averaging with improvements in spatial and temporal resolution.

Automated summary

Electrocatalysis is an environmentally friendly method for energy conversion reactions and organic transformations. The use of nanomaterials and single atoms as catalysts improves activity and selectivity, but optimal design of electrocatalytic reactions requires a deep understanding of the dynamic processes of the solid-liquid interface, reaction intermediates, and catalyst structural changes. Real-time tracking of bond breaking and formation events is crucial for catalyst characterization.