Polarization, the phenomenon of charge separation at an interface, generates strong, oriented electric fields. Models describing how interfacial polarization drives outer-sphere electron transfer are well-developed, but the influence of polarization on inner-sphere reactions remains poorly understood, despite the central role of inner-sphere reactions in virtually all electrochemical energy conversion technologies and liquid-phase thermochemical catalysis. We have developed synthetic tools and conceptual frameworks for understanding and deploying interfacial polarization to (a) drive reactivity at molecular active sites, (b) promote selective small molecule activation (c) control thermochemical reactions. These studies provide rich connections between molecular, heterogeneous, thermochemical, and electrochemical catalysis. Our latest findings on polarization-driven reactivity will be discussed.

Power of polarization: Controlling bond activation and catalysis using interfacial charge separation

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ACS Spring 2023

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