Tracking structural response of Cu-based electrocatalysts during potentiodynamic CO2 electroreduction using in situ time-resolved high energ

In this experiment, we will identify the dynamics of the (bulk) structural and morphological response of oxide-derived Cu and Ag-doped Cu electrocatalysts to potentiodynamic electrochemical and CO2 electroreduction (CO2RR) conditions. We will record high energy diffraction pattern with ms time resolution during potential pulse experiments for varying potential ranges. Pulsing between and within capacitive, Faradaic, and catalytic conditions in CO2-containing and CO2-free electrolytes will allow us to differentiate between the bulk lattice response to the charged state, the surface chemistry and active state of the catalysts. Our comparative studies using size-selected Ag and Au particles will allow us to draw more general conclusion on the dynamics of catalysts under electrochemical conditions. Complementary operando small-angle X-ray scattering measurements on selected conditions will shine light on the morphological evolution under potentiostatic and –dynamic CO2RR conditions.