The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) from oxidation of water or hydroxide to dioxygen remains the most challenging part of solar water splitting. Inexpensive, robust, efficient catalysts for chemical and electrochemical OER are sought. We have been exploring the mineral phase birnessite (layered KnMnO2) for this reaction, as it shows significant variability in its activity based upon defect density and average oxidation state (ratio of Mn(III) to Mn(IV)). Our work, combining theoretical investigation with experimental catalytic ane electrochemical studies has uncovered new information about features that enhance the catalytic activities of these materials, including hole-mobility, cross-layer conductivity, and distribution of oxidation states in neighboring layers, which tunes the band structures of neighboring layers to enhance electron transfer. An overview of our group's contributions to this area as well as new discoveries will be presented.

Electronic structure effects on catalytic water oxidation activity by layered manganese oxide phases

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.