Quantum Sensors to Probe Interfaces in Electrochemical Systems

Electrochemical energy technologies such as batteries, water electrolysis, and carbon dioxide/carbon monoxide reduction are required for clean energy and to transform manufacturing. The challenges facing electrochemical devices could be solved if we improved our fundamental understanding of interfacial phenomena at solid/liquid interfaces that then allows us to optimally control electrochemical transformations under applied potentials. Quantum sensing methodologies have been shown in other fields such as biology and physics to have exquisite sensitivity with excellent spatial resolution. Unfortunately, these sensors have not been studied for electrochemistry. Here, the researchers propose to develop quantum sensors for energy technologies and use these sensors to extract fundamental insights into electrochemical processes ranging from heterogeneity in electric fields to spectroscopic determination of intermediates. The work will open up a new field poised to accelerate the development of energy technologies and usher in new classes of materials and devices to mitigate carbon.

“The University of Chicago is a world leader in the area of quantum science; hence we want to use our quantum expertise to accelerate the development of next generation energy technologies. Our project is focused on using the high sensitivity of quantum systems to understand reactions relevant for decarbonization. If successful, it will enable new materials that are more stable and earth abundant for batteries and carbon dioxide capture and conversion”

Chibueze Amanchukwu, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering