A Systematic Study of the Influence of Electrolyte Ions on the Electrode Activity

Efficient electrocatalysis is most likely an answer to recent energy related challenges. Countless studies have been trying find the links between electrode/electrolyte interface structure, its composition, and resulting activity in order improve performance of numerous devices, such as electrolyzers, fuel cells, certain types batteries. However, this scientific field currently meets serious complications associated with prediction explanation unexpected influence seemingly inert electrolyte components on observed activity. Herein, we investigate various electrocatalytic systems using a unique laser-induced current transient technique long-lasting fundamental question: How can “inert” electrolytes change so drastically? Different metal electrodes contact aqueous solutions two important reactions were used model systems. We experimentally determine potential maximum entropy connections position performance.