Through previous work in our group, Chevrel-phase (CP) molybdenum chalcogenides have been identified as selective catalysts for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to methanol. We describe herein the facile, microwave-assisted synthesis of a range of CP molybdenum selenides (MxMo6Se8, M = Cu, Cr, Ni, Fe; x = 0-2). Characterization of as-synthesized materials via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed successful synthesis of high-quality CP materials. Further, the CPs synthesized here were evaluated as CO2 reduction electrocatalysts, where controlled-potential electrolysis experiments were performed in CO2-saturated aqueous electrolytes. Preliminary testing suggests that when compared to its sulfide analogue (Cu2Mo6S8), Cu2Mo6Se8 is more active and selective toward methanol production. Hence, compositional tuning of this new class of electrocatalyst may offer a route toward an economically viable, carbon-neutral fuel production system.

Facile synthesis of Chevrel-phase molybdenum selenides with applications in energy conversion and storage

2019 Spring National Meeting

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