Deciphering Photoinduced Catalytic Reaction Mechanisms in Natural and Artificial Photosynthetic Systems on Multiple Temporal and Spatial Scales Using X-ray Probes

Abstract

Published as part of Chemical Reviews virtual special issue "Operando and In Situ Studies in Catalysis and Electrocatalysis".

Introduction: Operando and In Situ Studies in Catalysis and Electrocatalysis

“…These fluctuations profoundly influence the interactions between the catalyst and the gas and liquid phase, thereby influencing the surface and bulk structure and properties of the catalytic material. It is thus paramount to grasp this intricate interplay to facilitate a knowledge-driven exploration of novel catalytic materials, pinpointing structural features directly pertinent to catalytic activity while pushing the boundaries of time and spatial resolutions. − …”

“…Given the complex nature of species at the solid–liquid interface, highly sensitive and selective techniques like sum-frequency generation are indispensable for reporting their molecular information . Similarly, understanding photocatalytic phenomena is an increasingly important challenge …”