The Bates group synthesizes, characterizes, and evaluates the reactivity of heterogeneous catalysts and electrocatalysts for reactions relevant to sustainable energy and chemical conversions.
The Bates group, in collaboration with the Machan group (UVA Chemistry), is developing heterogeneous electrocatalysts for producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). H2O2 is used for textile bleaching, wastewater treatment, disinfection, and for production of propylene oxide, which is a >8 Mt/y commodity chemical used for flexible foams, propylene glycol ether solvents, and industrial fluids. We aim to anchor tailor-made molecules developed by the Machan group to solid carbon supports to control their activity and long-term stability for H2O2 synthesis as the cathode in an electrochemical cell. A USOAR student may be involved with: (1) synthesis and characterization of heterogeneous electrocatalysts, (2) comparison of homogeneous and heterogeneous electrocatalyst performance for H2O2 synthesis, and (3) design and testing of scaled-up catalyst formulations and electrochemical cells. This catalytic technology has the potential to address the drawbacks of existing H2O2 synthesis processes, which require unsustainable organic solvents and expensive Pd catalysts. The catalysts we will develop in this project instead enable aqueous (water-based) processing using metal-free catalysts.
The student should show an enthusiasm for understanding the molecular details of everyday processes, independent problem-solving, and collaboration. A strong background and interest in chemistry is preferred. Proficiency with Excel is required for data analysis. The student should demonstrate a strong commitment to research and be prepared to balance their coursework with this research experience. We value good written and verbal communication skills and will provide training to build them.
Students will learn how to:
• synthesize heterogeneous catalysts
• characterize heterogeneous catalysts
• measure electrocatalytic reactivity
• design and conduct experiments and analyze data
• read and summarize literature in the area of catalysis