Operando studies on transition metal oxides/hydroxides during OER

Transition metal oxide/hydroxide catalysts, based on Fe, Co, and Ni, are active electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline media. However, the structure/property relations are far from understood. In the proposed experiment we want to elucidate the structural changes of NiFe(oxy)hydroxides when used as electrocatalysts under OER. We will use wide-angle x-ray scattering (WAXS) in combination with x-ray total scattering and Pair Distribution Function (PDF) analysis to obtain in-depth insight on structural changes and rearrangements taking place under applied potential. This information is crucial for further catalyst optimization.