Funded Projects

The characterization of radicals generated via Fenton-like reactions in sustainable chemical applications is a challenging endeavor that requires specialized spectroscopies and chemical techniques. However, the properties and effects of these radicals remain elusive owing to their low concentrations, which is inherently linked to their high-reactivities. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is a specialized technique that is highly sensitive to radicals. The Lacy research group has unique expertise in the use of EPR instrumentation and the Dai lab has expertise in the reactivity and fate of Fenton-species. A problem that we aim to address is the removal of deleterious Fenton side reactions of iron catalysts interfaced with organic ionomers and proton exchange membranes in fuel cells, which cause significant performance degradation. Fundamental understanding on the relevant reaction mechanism would greatly benefit the catalyst design that the Wu group is pursuing. Hence, we are seeking to identify the radical products and their fates as it relates to improving the iron catalyst longevity and stability. The Dai lab has expertise in the fates of these radicals and we intend to incorporate sacrificial molecules to quench the Fenton radicals. Additional synergistic components include the purposeful generation of Fenton reagents by electrochemical means. Therefore, the knowledge gained from studying the Fenton reagents in Gang Wu’s fuel cells will benefit other new projects in the Lacy and Dai lab. The crux of this collaboration is the triune expertise in Fenton reactions and the essential use of EPR spectroscopy. The latter component provides an innovative approach that is not used in application-based sciences such as fuel cells or environmental science. The proposed science is currently not funded by any of the three PI’s.