Principal Investigator Yogesh Surendranath
The efficiency and selectivity of a heterogeneous catalyst often depends critically on its nanoscale morphology, size and shape, because this defines the atomic-scale structures on display at the interface. While it has been recognized that transition metal chalcogenides and pnictides are attractive catalysts for applications ranging from fuel cell cathodes to hydrodesulfurization, systematic studies of morphology dependent reactivity have been impeded by the inability to access monodisperse nanocrystals by traditional colloidal synthesis methods. We are developing novel synthetic routes to this important class of materials with an eye towards understanding structure-function relationships at the molecular level.
Hypothesis-driven synthesis and rigorous physical characterization provide the basis for catalyst discovery and optimization. Students and postdoctoral scholars gain expertise in modern methods for the synthesis of inorganic coordination compounds, thin films, nanocrystals, and organic ligands. We employ a range of characterization tools including TEM, SEM, AFM, XPS, UV-Vis, IR, NMR etc. with a particular emphasis on electrochemical methods. These tools allow us to probe structure-function relationships that guide the development of new synthetic strategies.