Johna Leddy

University of Iowa

Hosted by: Robbyn Anand

Analytical Seminar

Abstract:

Electron transfer reactions are ubiquitous. Gradients drive dynamics of chemical change. Magnetic gradients enhance electron transfer rates. Catalysis at electrodes is characterized by current and voltage, but magnetic properties are not considered. Unpaired electron spins set magnetic properties of electrodes, redox reactions, and micromagnets.  Unique perspectives on electrocatalysis arise where the magnetic properties are introduced.  Magnetoelectrocatalysis impacts rates of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and electrolysis of single carbon (C1) species, such as carbon monoxide.  Addition of micromagnets to fuel cells increases efficiency, power, and energy by 40%.  From voltammetry of transition metal complexes and simple Boltzmann statistics, redox probe spins impact electron transfer rates.  Magnetic properties of the electrode material are explicit in the rate equation, which provides fundamental means to design more effective electrocatalysts.