The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic media is critical for sustainable energy conversion technologies, such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. However, developing efficient, stable, and cost-effective electrocatalysts remains a significant challenge due to the harsh acidic operating conditions and the reliance on scarce, expensive noble metals like Ir and Ru.
This project focuses on the rational design and development of cobalt-based spinel electrocatalysts to achieve high activity and durability for the acidic OER. Cobalt-based spinel oxides (i.e. Co3O4 and its derivatives), with their tunable electronic structures and intrinsic stability, offer a promising alternative to noble-metal-based catalysts. By engineering the cation distribution, defect chemistry, and electronic states, we aim to optimize the catalytic performance and enhance resistance to dissolution under acidic conditions. A systematic investigation will be conducted to understand the structure-activity relationship by employing advanced characterization techniques, including in situ spectroscopy and electron microscopy.
The outcomes of this research will contribute to the development of robust, earth-abundant electrocatalysts for PEM water electrolysis, advancing cost-effective hydrogen production and sustainable energy storage solutions.
School
Chemical Engineering
Research Area
Electrocatalysis | Water splitting | Catalyst design
- Research environment
- Expected outcomes
- Supervisory team
- Reference material/links
The student will have the opportunity to work in Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) and the ARC Global Hydrogen Economy Training Centre (GlobH2E) with well-equipped laboratories and experimental facilities for photoelectrocatalysis research under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal.
The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment with the opportunity to learn various functional skills (i.e., professional development, outreach work, and mentoring) to facilitate future career in academic or industry.
The student is expected to gain experience in electrocatalysis, material characterizations and proton-exchange-membrane electrolyser assembly. This is an extended project based on preliminary results and the generated knowledge and data will result in a publication. The project will also allow the student to work with other research students to gain valuable interdisciplinary experience. Continuing the research as an 4th year honour thesis project is possible.
