Exploiting metal and metal oxide dynamics behavior under oxidative and reductive conditions for catalysis and electrochemistry applications

Novel approach to increase the surface area of freshly prepared or deactivated catalyst is presented in this proposal. The proposed procedure is based on the catalyst dynamics observed under relevant reaction condition with state-of-the-art in situ electron microscopy methods. Nickel powder sample is chosen as the model system to be investigated under the proposed dynamic reduction-oxidation treatments. Nickel particles of varying sizes (thus surface areas) will be prepared by simple precipitation method. The proposed reduction-oxidation treatment is expected to change the morphology, surface area and porosity. The nickel powders of varying sizes represent different level of sintering process. Electron microscopy, N2 isotherm measurements and electrochemical analysis will be performed on the as-prepared nickel powder samples and nickel powder after the treatment. Electrochemical analysis in particular will allow to assess the electrolyte-wetted area relevant for electrochemical application such electro-catalyst, supercapacitors and batteries. Finally once the general trend have been established on the influence of reduction-oxidation treatment and surface area of the model nickel powder samples, an nickel-aluminum alloy will be tested for the same treatment