Immobilised PolyOxoMetalate Single Atom Catalysts

The sustainable future of humankind will be possible through reducing greenhouse emissions, enabled by the conversion of greenhouse gases to useful fuels and feedstocks.

In this proposal, I will develop cost-effective and efficient Immobilised PolyOxoMetalate Single Atom Catalysts (IPOMSACs) for the electro-conversion of CO2 and nitrate into green fuels.

The structural motif consists of a catalytically active metal site (SAC) encased by a metal-oxide framework (POM), and immobilised onto a conductive nanostructured support.

POMs offer unparalleled promise for catalytic materials due to their unmatched tuneability, structural variation, and redox capabilities. POM-SACs have been reported for many oxidation reactions. However, an efficient catalyst for the reductive conversion of CO2 and nitrate has not yet been realised.

During the project, I will identify, synthesise and characterise a series of highly selective POM-SACs, followed by their immobilisation onto nanostructured supports for stability enhancement.

In situ spectroelectrochemistry will be utilised to identify key mechanistic steps and uncover structure-activity relationships in these materials for the future development of electrocatalysts.

This fellowship will enable a ground breaking path in the design and mechanistic understanding of highly efficient electrocatalysts.

The project will enable the researchers to bring together previous knowledge and expertise with the host institution, whilst obtaining new knowledge in the fields of electrochemistry, materials science, and characterisation of advanced materials.

The researcher will benefit from world leading facilities at ICN2, providing an ideal environment for AAS's development, in addition to guidance and training for transferable skills conducive to a beginning a successful independent research career.