SwePub - search: WFRF:(Pasti Igor A.)

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1.	Brkovic, S. M., et al. (author) Non-stoichiometric tungsten-carbide-oxide-supported Pt–Ru anode catalysts for PEM fuel cells – From basic electrochemistry to fuel cell performance 2020 In: International journal of hydrogen energy. - : Elsevier. - 0360-3199 .- 1879-3487. ; 45:27, s. 13929-13938 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Durability and cost of Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are two major factors delaying their commercialization. Cost is associated with the price of the catalysts, while durability is associated with degradation and poisoning of the catalysts, primarily by CO. This motivated us to develop tungsten-carbide-oxide (WxCyOz) as a new non-carbon based catalyst support for Pt–Ru–based anode PEMFC catalyst. The aim was to improve performance and obtain higher CO tolerance compared to commercial catalysts. The performance of obtained PtRu/WxCyOz catalysts was investigated using cyclic voltammetry, linear scan voltammetry and rotating disk electrode voltammetry. Particular attention was given to the analysis of CO poisoning, to better understand how WxCyOz species can contribute to the CO tolerance of PtRu/WxCyOz. Improved oxidation of COads at low potentials (E < 0.5 V vs. RHE) was ascribed to OH provided by the oxide phase at the interfacial region between the support and the PtRu particles. On the other hand, at high potentials (E > 0.5 V vs. RHE) CO removal proceeds dominantly via OH provided from the oxidized metal sites. The obtained catalyst with the best performance (30% PtRu/WxCyOz) was tested as an anode catalyst in PEM fuel cell. When using synthetic reformate as a fuel in PEMFC, there is a significant power drop of 35.3 % for the commercial 30% PtRu/C catalyst, while for the PtRu/WxCyOz anode catalyst this drop is around 16 %.
2.	Jovanović, A., et al. (author) Structural and electronic properties of V2O5 and their tuning by doping with 3d elements-modelling using the DFT+ U method and dispersion correction 2018 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry. - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 20:20, s. 13934-13943 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract New electrode materials for alkaline-ion batteries are a timely topic. Among many promising candidates, V2O5 is one of the most interesting cathode materials. While having very high theoretical capacity, in practice, its performance is hindered by its low stability and poor conductivity. As regards the theoretical descriptions of V2O5, common DFT-GGA calculations fail to reproduce both the electronic and crystal structures. While the band gap is underestimated, the interlayer spacing is overestimated as weak dispersion interactions are not properly described within GGA. Here we show that the combination of the DFT+U method and semi-empirical D2 correction can compensate for the drawbacks of the GGA when it comes to the modelling of V2O5. When compared to common PBE calculations, with a modest increase in the computational cost, PBE+U+D2 fully reproduced the experimental band gap of V2O5, while the errors in the lattice parameters are only a few percent. Using the proposed PBE+U+D2 methodology we studied the doping of V2O5 with 3d elements (from Sc to Zn). We show that both the structural and electronic parameters are affected by doping. Most importantly, a significant increase in conductivity is expected upon doping, which is of great importance for the application of V2O5 in metal-ion batteries.
3.	Nowakowska, Sylwia, et al. (author) Adsorbate-Induced Modification of the Confining Barriers in a Quantum Box Array 2018 In: ACS Nano. - : American Chemical Society (ACS). - 1936-0851 .- 1936-086X. ; 12:1, s. 768-778 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Quantum devices depend on addressable elements, which can be modified separately and in their mutual interaction. Self-assembly at surfaces, for example, formation of a porous (metal-) organic network, provides an ideal way to manufacture arrays of identical quantum boxes, arising in this case from the confinement of the electronic (Shockley) surface state within the pores. We show that the electronic quantum box state as well as the interbox coupling can be modified locally to a varying extent by a selective choice of adsorbates, here C60, interacting with the barrier. In view of the wealth of differently acting adsorbates, this approach allows for engineering quantum states in on-surface network architectures.
4.	Ritopecki, Milica S. S., et al. (author) The Local Coordination Effects on the Reactivity and Speciation of Active Sites in Graphene-Embedded Single-Atom Catalysts over Wide pH and Potential Range 2022 In: Nanomaterials. - : MDPI AG. - 2079-4991. ; 12:23 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Understanding the catalytic performance of different materials is of crucial importance for achieving further technological advancements. This especially relates to the behaviors of different classes of catalysts under operating conditions. Here, we analyzed the effects of local coordination of metal centers (Mn, Fe, Co) in graphene-embedded single-atom catalysts (SACs). We started with well-known M@N-4-graphene catalysts and systematically replaced nitrogen atoms with oxygen or sulfur atoms to obtain M@OxNy-graphene and M@SxNy-graphene SACs (x + y = 4). We show that local coordination strongly affects the electronic structure and reactivity towards hydrogen and oxygen species. However, stability is even more affected. Using the concept of Pourbaix plots, we show that the replacement of nitrogen atoms in metal coordinating centers with O or S destabilized the SACs towards dissolution, while the metal centers were easily covered by O and OH, acting as additional ligands at high anodic potentials and high pH values. Thus, not only should local coordination be considered in terms of the activity of SACs, but it is also necessary to consider its effects on the speciation of SAC active centers under different potentials and pH conditions.
5.	Baljozovic, Milos, et al. (author) Self-Assembly and Magnetic Order of Bi-Molecular 2D Spin Lattices of M(II,III) Phthalocyanines on Au(111) 2021 In: MAGNETOCHEMISTRY. - : MDPI. - 2312-7481. ; 7:8 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Single layer low-dimensional materials are presently of emerging interest, including in the context of magnetism. In the present report, on-surface supramolecular architecturing was further developed and employed to create surface supported two-dimensional binary spin arrays on atomically clean non-magnetic Au(111). By chemical programming of the modules, different checkerboards were produced combining phthalocyanines containing metals of different oxidation and spin states, diamagnetic zinc, and a metal-free 'spacer'. In an in-depth, spectro-microscopy and theoretical account, we correlate the structure and the magnetic properties of these tunable systems and discuss the emergence of 2D Kondo magnetism from the spin-bearing components and via the physico-chemical bonding to the underlying substrate. The contributions of the individual elements, as well as the role of the electronic surface state in the bottom substrate, are discussed, also looking towards further in-depth investigations.
6.	Cha, Gihoon, et al. (author) As a single atom Pd outperforms Pt as the most active co-catalyst for photocatalytic H-2 evolution 2021 In: ISCIENCE. - : Elsevier BV. - 2589-0042. ; 24:8 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Here, we evaluate three different noble metal co-catalysts (Pd, Pt, and Au) that are present as single atoms (SAs) on the classic benchmark photocatalyst, TiO2. To trap the single atoms on the surface, we introduced controlled surface vacancies (Ti3+-Ov) on anatase TiO2 nanosheets by a thermal reduction treatment. After anchoring identical loadings of single atoms of Pd, Pt, and Au, we measure the photocatalytic H-2 generation rate and compare it to the classic nanoparticle co-catalysts on the nanosheets. While nanoparticles yield the well-established the hydrogen evolution reaction activity sequence (Pt > Pd > Au), for the single atom form, Pd radically outperforms Pt and Au. Based on density functional theory (DFT), we ascribe this unusual photocatalytic co-catalyst sequence to the nature of the charge localization on the noble metal SAs embedded in the TiO2 surface.
7.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) A DFT study of the interplay between dopants and oxygen functional groups over the graphene basal plane - implications in energy-related applications 2017 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY. - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 19:12, s. 8530-8540 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Understanding the ways graphene can be functionalized is of great importance for many contemporary technologies. Using density functional theory calculations we investigate how vacancy formation and substitutional doping by B, N, P and S affect the oxidizability and reactivity of the graphene basal plane. We find that the presence of these defects enhances the reactivity of graphene. In particular, these sites act as strong attractors for OH groups, suggesting that the oxidation of graphene could start at these sites or that these sites are the most difficult to reduce. Scaling between the OH and H adsorption energies is found on both reduced and oxidized doped graphene surfaces. Using the O-2 molecule as a probe we show that a proper modelling of doped graphene materials has to take into account the presence of oxygen functional groups.
8.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) A general view on the reactivity of the oxygen-functionalized graphene basal plane 2016 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry. - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 18:9, s. 6580-6586 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract In this contribution we inspect the adsorption of H, OH, Cl and Pt on oxidized graphene using DFT calculations. The introduction of epoxy and hydroxyl groups on the graphene basal plane significantly alters its chemisorption properties, which can be attributed to the deformation of the basal plane and the type and distribution of these groups. We show that a general scaling relation exists between the hydrogen binding energies and the binding energies of other investigated adsorbates, which allows for a simple probing of the reactivity of oxidized graphene with only one adsorbate. The electronic states of carbon atoms located within the 2 eV interval below the Fermi level are found to be responsible for the interaction of the basal plane with the chosen adsorbates. The number of electronic states situated in this energy interval is shown to correlate with hydrogen binding energies.
9.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) Altering the reactivity of pristine, N- and P-doped graphene by strain engineering : A DFT view on energy related aspects 2020 In: Applied Surface Science. - : ELSEVIER. - 0169-4332 .- 1873-5584. ; 514 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract For carbon-based materials, in contrast to metal surfaces, a general relationship between strain and reactivity is not yet established, even though there are literature reports on strained graphene. Knowledge of such relationships would be extremely beneficial for understanding the reactivity of graphene-based surfaces and finding optimisation strategies which would make these materials more suitable for targeted applications. Here we investigate the effects of compressive and tensile strain (up to +/- 5%) on the structure, electronic properties and reactivity of pure, N-doped and P-doped graphene, using DFT calculations. We demonstrate the possibility of tuning the topology of the graphene surface by strain, as well as by the choice of the dopant atom. The reactivity of (doped) strained graphene is probed using H and Na as simple adsorbates of great practical importance. Strain can both enhance and weaken H and Na adsorption on (doped) graphene. In case of Na adsorption, a linear relationship is observed between the Na adsorption energy on P-doped graphene and the phosphorus charge. A linear relationship between the Na adsorption energy on flat graphene surfaces and strain is found. Based on the adsorption energies and electrical conductivity, potentially good candidates for hydrogen storage and sodiumion battery electrodes are discussed.
10.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) Functionalized graphene for sodium battery applications : the DFT insights 2017 In: Electrochimica Acta. - : Elsevier. - 0013-4686 .- 1873-3859. ; 250, s. 185-195 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Considering the increasing interest in the use of graphene-based materials for energy conversion and storage applications, we have performed a DFT study of Na interaction with doped graphene, both in non-oxidized and oxidized forms. Oxidation seems to play the crucial role when it comes to the interaction of doped graphene materials with sodium. The dopants act as attractors of OH groups, making the material prone to oxidation, and therefore altering its affinity towards Na. In some cases, this can result in hydroxide or water formation - an irreversible change lethal for battery performance. Our results suggest that one should carefully control the oxidation level of doped graphene-based materials if they are to be used as sodium battery electrode materials as the optimal oxidation level depends on the dopant type.
11.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) Oxidized graphene as an electrode material for rechargeable metal-ion batteries - a DFT point of view 2015 In: Electrochimica Acta. - : Elsevier BV. - 0013-4686 .- 1873-3859. ; 176, s. 1092-1099 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract In line with a growing interest in the use of graphene-based materials for energy storage applications and active research in the field of rechargeable metal-ion batteries we have performed a DFT based computational study of alkali metal atoms (Li, Na and K) interaction with an oxidized graphene. The presence of oxygen surface groups (epoxy and hydroxyl) alters the chemisorption properties of graphene. In particular, we observe that the epoxy groups are redox active and enhance the alkali metal adsorption energies by a factor of 2 or more. When an alkali metal atom interacts with hydroxyl-graphene the formation of metal-hydroxide is observed. In addition to a potential boost of metal ion storage capability, oxygen functional groups also prevent the precipitation of the metal phase. By simulating lithiation/de-lithiation process on epoxy-graphenes, it was concluded that the oxidized graphene can undergo structural changes during battery operation. Our results suggest that the content and the type of oxygen surface groups should be carefully tailored to maximize the performance of metal-ion batteries. This is mainly related to the control of the oxidation level in order to provide enough active centers for metal ion storage while preserving sufficient electrical conductivity.
12.	Dobrota, Ana S., et al. (author) Stabilization of alkali metal ions interaction with OH-functionalized graphene via clustering of OH groups - implications in charge storage applications 2016 In: RSC Advances. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 2046-2069. ; 6:63, s. 57910-57919 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Graphene synthesized by reduction of graphene oxide, depending on the degree of reduction, retains a certain amount of surface OH groups. Considering the surface OH groups/graphene layer system by means of density functional theory calculations, we evidenced the tendency of OH groups to cluster, resulting in enhanced system stability and no band gap opening. In the oxygen concentration range between 1.8 and 8.47 at%, with the addition of each new OH group, integral binding energy decreases, while differential binding energy shows the boost at even numbers of OH groups. Furthermore, we found that the clustering of OH groups over graphene basal plane plays a crucial role in enhancing the interactions with alkali metals. Namely, if alkali metal atoms interact with individual OH groups only, the interaction leads to an irreversible formation of MOH phase. When alkali atoms interact with clusters containing odd number of OH groups, a reversible transfer of an electron charge from the metal atom to the substrate takes place without OH removal. The strength of the interaction in general increases from Li to K. In an experimental investigation of a graphene sample which dominantly contains OH groups, we have shown that the trend in the specific interaction strength reflects to gravimetric capacitances measured in alkali metal chloride solutions. We propose that the charge stored in OH groups which interact with alkali metal cation and the pi electronic system of the graphene basal plane presents the main part of its pseudocapacitance.
13.	Gebremariam, Goitom K., et al. (author) Hydrogen Evolution Volcano(es)-From Acidic to Neutral and Alkaline Solutions 2022 In: Catalysts. - : MDPI AG. - 2073-4344. ; 12:12 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract As the global energy crisis continues, efficient hydrogen production is one of the hottest topics these days. In this sense, establishing catalytic trends for hydrogen production is essential for choosing proper H-2 generation technology and catalytic material. Volcano plots for hydrogen evolution in acidic media are well-known, while a volcano plot in alkaline media was constructed ten years ago using theoretically calculated hydrogen binding energies. Here, for the first time, we show that the volcano-type relationships are largely maintained in a wide range of pH values, from acidic to neutral and alkaline solutions. We do this using theoretically calculated hydrogen binding energies on clean metallic surfaces and experimentally measured hydrogen evolution overpotentials. When metallic surfaces are exposed to high anodic potentials, hydrogen evolution can be boosted or significantly impeded, depending on the type of metal and the electrolyte in which the reaction occurs. Such effects are discussed here and can be used to properly tailor catalytic materials for hydrogen production via different water electrolysis technologies.
14.	Gutic, Sanjin J., et al. (author) Improved catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solutions through the electrochemical formation of nickel-reduced graphene oxide interface 2017 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY. - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 19:20, s. 13281-13293 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract H-2 production via water electrolysis plays an important role in hydrogen economy. Hence, novel cheap electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction ( HER) are constantly needed. Here, we describe a simple method for the preparation of composite catalysts for H-2 evolution, consisting in simultaneous reduction of the graphene oxide film, and electrochemical deposition of Ni on its surface. The obtained composites (Ni@rGO), compared to pure electrodeposited Ni, show an improved electrocatalytic activity towards HER in alkaline media. We found that the activity of the Ni@rGO catalysts depends on the surface composition ( Ni vs. C mole ratio) and on the level of structural disorder of the rGO support. We suggest that HER activity is improved via H-ads spillover from the Ni particles to the rGO support, where quick recombination to molecular hydrogen is favored. A deeper insight into such a mechanism of H-2 production was achieved by kinetic Monte-Carlo simulations. These simulations enabled the reproduction of experimentally observed trends under the assumption that the support can act as a Hads acceptor. We expect that the proposed procedure for the production of novel HER catalysts could be generalized and lead to the development of a new generation of HER catalysts by tailoring the catalyst/support interface.
15.	Jovanovic, Aleksandar, et al. (author) Tuning the electronic and chemisorption properties of hexagonal MgO nanotubes by doping - Theoretical study 2018 In: Applied Surface Science. - : Elsevier. - 0169-4332 .- 1873-5584. ; 457, s. 1158-1166 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Oxide materials offer a wide range of interesting physical and chemical properties. Even more versatile behavior of oxides is seen at the nanoscale, qualifying these materials for a number of applications. In this study we used DFT calculations to investigate the physical and chemical properties of small hexagonal MgO nanotubes of different length. We analyzed the effect of Li, B, C, N, and F doping on the properties of the nanotubes. We find that all dopants favor the edge positions when incorporated into the nanotubes. Doping results in the net magnetization whose value depends on the type of the impurity. Using the CO molecule as a probe, we studied the adsorption properties of pristine and doped MgO nanotubes. Our results show that the dopant sites are also the centers of significantly altered chemical reactivity. While pristine MgO nanotubes adsorb CO weakly, very strong adsorption at the dopant sites (B-, C-, and N-doped nanotubes) or neighboring edge atoms (F- and Li-doped nanotubes) is observed. Our results suggest that impurity engineering in oxide materials can be a promising strategy for the development of novel materials with possible use as selective adsorbents or catalysts.
16.	Jovanović, Aleksandar Z., et al. (author) Reactivity of Stone-Wales defect in graphene lattice – DFT study 2023 In: FlatChem. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2627. ; 42 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Understanding the reactivity of carbon surfaces is crucial for the development of advanced functional materials. The SW defect is commonly present in carbon materials, but a comprehensive understanding of its effects on the reactivity of carbons is missing. In this study, we systematically investigate the reactivity of graphene surfaces with the Stone-Wales (SW) defect using Density Functional Theory calculations. We explore the atomic adsorption of various elements, including rows 1–3 of the Periodic Table, potassium, calcium, and selected transition metals. Our results demonstrate that the SW defect enhances binding with the studied adsorbates when compared to pristine graphene, with carbon and silicon showing the most significant differences. Additionally, we examine the effects of mechanical deformation on the lattice by constraining the system with the SW defect to the pristine graphene cell. Interestingly, these constraints lead to even stronger binding interactions. Furthermore, for carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen adsorbates, we observe that mechanical deformation triggers the incorporation of adatoms into the carbon bond network, leading to the reorganization of the SW defect structure. This work establishes a foundation for future studies in the defect and strain engineering of graphene, opening avenues for developing advanced materials and catalysts with enhanced reactivity and performance.
17.	Karacic, Dalibor, et al. (author) When supporting electrolyte matters - Tuning capacitive response of graphene oxide via electrochemical reduction in alkali and alkaline earth metal chlorides 2019 In: Electrochimica Acta. - : Elsevier. - 0013-4686 .- 1873-3859. ; 297, s. 112-117 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract The ability to tune charge storage properties of graphene oxide ( GO) is of utmost importance for energy conversion applications. Here we show that the electrochemical reduction of GO is highly sensitive to the cations present in the solution. GO is reduced at more negative potential in alkali metal chloride solutions than in alkaline earth metal chlorides. During the reduction, the capacitance of GO increases from 10 to 70 times. The maximum capacitances of reduced GO are between 65 and 130 F g(-1), depending on the electrolyte and the presence of conductive additive. We propose that different interactions of cations with oxygen functional groups of GO during the reduction are responsible for the observed effect. This hypothesis has been confirmed by Density Functional Theory calculations of alkali and alkaline earth metals interactions with epoxy-functionalized graphene sheet.
18.	Krstajić Pajić, Mila N., et al. (author) Activation of Osmium by the Surface Effects of Hydrogenated TiO2 Nanotube Arrays for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Performance 2023 In: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces. - : American Chemical Society. - 1944-8244 .- 1944-8252. ; 15:26, s. 31459-31469 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Efficient cathodes for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic water electrolysis rely on the use of expensive platinum group metals (PGMs). However, to achieve economically viable operation, both the content of PGMs must be reduced and their intrinsically strong H adsorption mitigated. Herein, we show that the surface effects of hydrogenated TiO2 nanotube (TNT) arrays can make osmium, a so far less-explored PGM, a highly active HER electrocatalyst. These defect-rich TiO2 nanostructures provide an interactive scaffold for the galvanic deposition of Os particles with modulated adsorption properties. Through systematic investigations, we identify the synthesis conditions (OsCl3 concentration/temperature/reaction time) that yield a progressive improvement in Os deposition rate and mass loading, thereby decreasing the HER overpotential. At the same time, the Os particles deposited by this procedure remain mainly sub-nanometric and entirely cover the inner tube walls. An optimally balanced Os@TNT composite prepared at 3 mM/55 °C/30 min exhibits a record low overpotential (η) of 61 mV at a current density of 100 mA cm-2, a high mass activity of 20.8 A mgOs-1 at 80 mV, and a stable performance in an acidic medium. Density functional theory calculations indicate the existence of strong interactions between the hydrogenated TiO2 surface and small Os clusters, which may weaken the Os-H* binding strength and thus boost the intrinsic HER activity of Os centers. The results presented in this study offer new directions for the fabrication of cost-effective PGM-based catalysts and a better understanding of the synergistic electronic interactions at the PGM\|TiO2 interface.
19.	Nedić Vasiljević, Bojana, et al. (author) Galvanic displacement of Co with Rh boosts hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions in alkaline media 2023 In: Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry. - : Springer Nature. - 1432-8488 .- 1433-0768. ; 27:7, s. 1877-1887 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract The growing energy crisis put an emphasis on the development of novel efficient energy conversion and storage systems. Here we show that surface modification of cobalt by a fast galvanic displacement with rhodium significantly affects the activity towards hydrogen (HER) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER) in alkaline media. After only 20 s of galvanic displacement, the HER overpotential is reduced by 0.16 V and OER overpotential by 0.06 V. This means that the predicted water splitting voltage is reduced from 2.03 V (clean Co anode and cathode) to 1.81 V at 10 mA cm−2 (Rh-exchanged Co electrode). During the galvanic displacement process, the surface roughness of the Co electrode does not suffer significant changes, which suggests an increase in the intrinsic catalytic activity. Density Functional Theory calculations show that the reactivity of the Rh-modified Co(0001) surface is modified compared to that of the clean Co(0001). In the case of HER, experimentally observed activity improvements are directly correlated to the weakening of the hydrogen-surface bond, confirming the beneficial role of Rh incorporation into the Co surface. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].
20.	Neumüller, Daniela, et al. (author) Hydrogen Evolution Reaction on Ultra-Smooth Sputtered Nanocrystalline Ni Thin Films in Alkaline Media-From Intrinsic Activity to the Effects of Surface Oxidation 2023 In: Nanomaterials. - : MDPI. - 2079-4991. ; 13:14 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Highly effective yet affordable non-noble metal catalysts are a key component for advances in hydrogen generation via electrolysis. The synthesis of catalytic heterostructures containing established Ni in combination with surface NiO, Ni(OH)(2), and NiOOH domains gives rise to a synergistic effect between the surface components and is highly beneficial for water splitting and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, the intrinsic catalytic activity of pure Ni and the effect of partial electrochemical oxidation of ultra-smooth magnetron sputter-deposited Ni surfaces are analyzed by combining electrochemical measurements with transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The experimental investigations are supplemented by Density Functional Theory and Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations. Kinetic parameters for the HER are evaluated while surface roughening is carefully monitored during different Ni film treatment and operation stages. Surface oxidation results in the dominant formation of Ni(OH)(2), practically negligible surface roughening, and 3-5 times increased HER exchange current densities. Higher levels of surface roughening are observed during prolonged cycling to deep negative potentials, while surface oxidation slows down the HER activity losses compared to as-deposited films. Thus, surface oxidation increases the intrinsic HER activity of nickel and is also a viable strategy to improve catalyst durability.
21.	Novcic, Katarina A., et al. (author) Theoretical analysis of doped graphene as cathode catalyst in Li-O-2 and Na-O-2 batteries - the impact of the computational scheme 2020 In: Electrochimica Acta. - : Elsevier BV. - 0013-4686 .- 1873-3859. ; 354 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Understanding the reactions in M-O-2 cells (M = Li or Na) is of great importance for further advancement of this promising technology. Computational modelling can be helpful along this way, but an adequate approach is needed to model such complex systems. We propose a new scheme for modelling processes in M-O-2 cells, where reference energies are obtained from high-level theory, CCSD(T), while the interactions of reaction intermediates with catalyst surfaces are extracted from computationally less expensive DFT. The approach is demonstrated for the case of graphene-based surfaces as model catalysts in Li-O-2 and Na-O-2 cells using the minimum viable mechanism. B-doped graphene was identified as the best catalyst amongst considered surfaces, while pristine graphene performs poorly. Moreover, we show that the inclusion of dispersion corrections for DFT has a significant impact on calculated discharge and charge potentials and suggests that long-range dispersion interactions should always be considered when graphene-based materials are modelled as electrocatalysts. Finally, we offer general guidelines for designing new ORR catalysts for M-O-2 cells in terms of the optimization of the interactions of catalyst surface with reaction intermediates.
22.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Adsorption of nonmetallic elements on defect-free MgO(001) surface - DFT study 2015 In: Surface Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 0039-6028 .- 1879-2758. ; 632, s. 39-49 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Adsorption of 11 non-metals (H, B, C, N, O, F, Si, P, S, Cl and Br) on defect-free MgO(001) surface was investigate using DFT approach. Adsorption energies were found to be between -0.56 eV (hydrogen adsorption) and -2.63 eV (carbon adsorption). Charge transfer from substrate to adsorbate was observed to follow the periodicity in the Periodic Table of Elements, as increases from left to right and decreases from top to bottom. All investigated adsorbates prefer oxygen sites on MgO surface. The analysis of adsorbate-MgO(001) electronic structure suggested that the electronic structure of the O adsorption center and adsorbate atom is molecule-like and there is no strong interaction with MgO electronic bands. Based on the obtained dataset for adsorption energies of selected non-metallic adsorbates (X) the reactivity of MgO towards the bond cleavage in the cases of X-X, H-X and HO-X bonds was discussed. Obtained results point to weak reactivity of MgO(001) towards atomic adsorption and low activity for bond cleavage. However, these results can be used as a starting point for the functionalization of MgO, particularly in the cases where bond cleavage activity and surface-mediated stabilization of dissociation products are desired.
23.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Atomic adsorption on graphene with a single vacancy : systematic DFT study through the periodic table of elements 2018 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 20:2, s. 858-865 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Vacancies in graphene present sites of altered chemical reactivity and open possibilities to tune graphene properties by defect engineering. The understanding of chemical reactivity of such defects is essential for successful implementation of carbon materials in advanced technologies. We report the results of a systematic DFT study of atomic adsorption on graphene with a single vacancy for the elements of rows 1-6 of the periodic table of elements (PTE), excluding lanthanides. The calculations have been performed using the PBE, long-range dispersion interaction-corrected PBE (PBE+D2 and PBE+D3) and non-local vdW-DF2 functionals. We find that most elements strongly bind to the vacancy, except for the elements of groups 11 and 12, and noble gases, for which the contribution of dispersion interaction to bonding is most significant. The strength of the interaction with the vacancy correlates with the cohesive energy of the elements in their stable phases: the higher the cohesive energy is, the stronger bonding to the vacancy can be expected. As most atoms can be trapped at the SV site we have calculated the potentials of dissolution and found that in most cases the metals adsorbed at the vacancy are more "noble" than they are in their corresponding stable phases.
24.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Atomic adsorption on pristine graphene along the Periodic Table of Elements - From PBE to non-local functionals 2018 In: Applied Surface Science. - : ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV. - 0169-4332 .- 1873-5584. ; 436, s. 433-440 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract The understanding of atomic adsorption on graphene is of high importance for many advanced technologies. Here we present a complete database of the atomic adsorption energies for the elements of the Periodic Table up to the atomic number 86 (excluding lanthanides) on pristine graphene. The energies have been calculated using the projector augmented wave (PAW) method with PBE, long-range dispersion interaction corrected PBE (PBE+D2, PBE+D3) as well as non-local vdW-DF2 approach. The inclusion of dispersion interactions leads to an exothermic adsorption for all the investigated elements. Dispersion interactions are found to be of particular importance for the adsorption of low atomic weight earth alkaline metals, coinage and s-metals (11th and 12th groups), high atomic weight p-elements and noble gases. We discuss the observed adsorption trends along the groups and rows of the Periodic Table as well some computational aspects of modelling atomic adsorption on graphene.
25.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Bimetallic dimers adsorbed on a defect-free MgO(001) surface : bonding, structure and reactivity 2015 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 17:15, s. 9666-9679 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract A large number of computational studies have been devoted to the investigation of monometallic clusters supported by MgO. However, in practice, catalysis shows that multicomponent catalytic systems often win in catalytic performance over single component systems. In this study, the geometrical and electronic structure, stability and chemisorption properties of M1M2 metal dimers (M1, M2 = Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, Pt) supported by defect free MgO(001) have been investigated in the framework of density functional theory. The oxygen sites of MgO(001) are the preferred adsorption sites for all the studied clusters, the majority of them adsorbing parallel to the surface with metal atoms attached to two surface oxygen atoms. The energetics of M1M2 + MgO(001) formation shows that the adsorption complexes are stable and benefit from metal-oxygen and metal-metal interaction. The chemisorption properties of Pd and Pt atoms in PdM2 and PtM2 dimers are studied using CO as a probe molecule. A linear relationship between the CO chemisorption and the d-band center position of the reacting atom in the dimer is observed, extending the d-band center model to the case of highly under-coordinated metal atoms supported by a non-conductive material.
26.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) General principles for designing supported catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction based on conceptual Kinetic Monte Carlo modeling 2016 In: International journal of hydrogen energy. - : Elsevier BV. - 0360-3199 .- 1879-3487. ; 41:4, s. 2526-2538 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Rational catalyst design presents one of the main paradigms in the contemporary materials science. Although the electronic structure calculations can be used to search for possible candidates, realistic supported catalysts are difficult to address in this way. In this contribution we use conceptual model of the supported hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst and investigate possible processes using Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations. In specific, we look at the possibility to boost H-2 production by the H spillover to the support and the tailoring of the catalyst deposit. Different scenarios were considered depending on the nature of the HER rate determining step (RDS) on the catalyst surface and the effects of the rates of elementary processes, catalyst dispersion and morphology are analyzed. Metals with low affinity towards hydrogen should be used as catalyst supports, while H spillover can boost H-2 production if Tafel or Heyrovsky reaction is the RDS on the catalyst surface. However, this can be achieved only if the catalyst dispersion is high, while the support has to act as a Hads acceptor and enable fast Hads recombination. General instructions for the choice of the catalystlsupport combination can be used to design new advanced HER catalysts. Copyright (C) 2015, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
27.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Structural, electronic, magnetic and chemical properties of B-, C- and N-doped MgO(001) surfaces 2016 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 18:1, s. 426-435 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Doping of simple oxide materials can give rise to new exciting physical and chemical properties and open new perspectives for a variety of possible applications. Here we use density functional theory calculations to investigate the B-, C- and N-doped MgO(001) surfaces. We have found that the investigated dopants induce magnetization of the system amounting to 3, 2 and 1 mu(B) for B, C and N, respectively. The dopants are found to be in the X2- state and tend to segregate to the surface. These impurity sites also present the centers of altered chemical reactivity. We probe the chemisorption properties of the doped MgO(001) surfaces with the CO molecule and atomic O. The adsorption of CO is much stronger on B- and C-doped MgO(001) compared to pure MgO(001) as the impurity sites serve as potent electron donors. The situation is similar to the case of atomic oxygen, for which we find the adsorption energy of -8.78 eV on B-doped MgO(001). The surface reactivity changes locally around the dopant atom, which is mainly restricted to its first coordination shell. The presented results suggest doped MgO as a versatile multifunctional material with possible use as an adsorbent or a catalyst.
28.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Theoretical studies in catalysis and electrocatalysis : from fundamental knowledge to catalyst design 2015 In: Reaction Kinetics, Mechanisms and Catalysis. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1878-5190 .- 1878-5204. ; 115:1, s. 5-32 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Catalytic processes are an indispensable part of a large number of contemporary technologies that stimulate a constant research and development effort in the field. Computational methods represent a valuable tool to investigate crucial steps of catalytic cycles able to reveal the main characteristics of a catalyst and provide a basis for the design of materials with superior catalytic activity. This review is focused on the recent advances in density functional theory studies of the interactions of reactive species and intermediates with solid surfaces. As examples, we discuss the catalysts for the CO oxidation and electrocatalysis of H-2 and O-2 electrode reactions. We demonstrate how the theoretical modelling can contribute to the understanding of catalytic processes and help to design new catalysts and electrocatalysts.
29.	Pasti, Igor A., et al. (author) Tunable reactivity of supported single metal atoms by impurity engineering of the MgO(001) support 2018 In: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Physics - PCCP. - : Royal Society of Chemistry. - 1463-9076 .- 1463-9084. ; 20:9, s. 6337-6346 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Development of novel materials may often require a rational use of high price components, like noble metals, in combination with the possibility to tune their properties in a desirable way. Here we present a theoretical DFT study of Au and Pd single atoms supported by doped MgO(001). By introducing B, C and N impurities into the MgO(001) surface, the interaction between the surface and the supported metal adatoms can be adjusted. Impurity atoms act as strong binding sites for Au and Pd adatoms and can help to produce highly dispersed metal particles. The reactivity of metal atoms supported by doped MgO(001), as probed by CO, is altered compared to their counterparts on pristine MgO(001). We find that Pd atoms on doped MgO(001) are less reactive than on perfect MgO(001). In contrast, Au adatoms bind CO much more strongly when placed on doped MgO(001). In the case of Au on N-doped MgO(001) we find that charge redistribution between the metal atom and impurity takes place even when not in direct contact, which enhances the interaction of Au with CO. The presented results suggest possible ways for optimizing the reactivity of oxide supported metal catalysts through impurity engineering.
30.	Rafailovic, Lidija D., et al. (author) High density of genuine growth twins in electrodeposited aluminum 2019 In: Science Advances. - : AMER ASSOC ADVANCEMENT SCIENCE. - 2375-2548. ; 5:10 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract We demonstrate electrodeposition as a synthesis method for fabrication of Al coatings, up to 10 mu m thick, containing a high density of genuine growth twins. This has not been expected since the twin boundary energy of pure Al is very high. TEM methods were used to analyze deposited Al and its nanoscaled twins. DFT methods confirmed that the influence of the substrate is limited to the layers close to the interface. Our findings are different from those achieved by sputtering of Al coatings restricted to a thickness less than 100 nm with twins dominated by epitaxial effects. We propose that in the case of electrodeposition, a high density of twins arises because of fast nucleation and is additionally promoted by a monolayer of adsorbed hydrogen originating from water impurities. Therefore, electrodeposition is a viable approach for tailoring the structure and properties of thicker, deposited Al coatings reinforced by twins.
31.	Ritopečki, Milica S., et al. (author) Density Functional Theory Analysis of the Impact of Boron Concentration and Surface Oxidation in Boron-Doped Graphene for Sodium and Aluminum Storage 2023 In: C - Journal of Carbon Research. - : MDPI. - 2311-5629. ; 9:4 Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract Graphene is thought to be a promising material for many applications. However, pristine graphene is not suitable for most electrochemical devices, where defect engineering is crucial for its performance. We demonstrate how the boron doping of graphene can alter its reactivity, electrical conductivity and potential application for sodium and aluminum storage, with an emphasis on novel metal-ion batteries. Using Density Functional Theory calculations, we investigate both the influence of boron concentration and the oxidation of the material on the mentioned properties. It is demonstrated that the presence of boron in graphene increases its reactivity towards atomic hydrogen and oxygen-containing species; in other words, it makes B-doped graphene more prone to oxidation. Additionally, the presence of these surface functional groups significantly alters the type and strength of the interaction of Na and Al with the given materials. Boron-doping and the oxidation of graphene is found to increase the Na storage capacity of graphene by a factor of up to four, and the calculated sodiation potentials indicate the possibility of using these materials as electrode materials in high-voltage Na-ion batteries.

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