INTEGRATING THERMODYNAMIC AND KINETIC INFORMATION: INSIGHTS FROM POURBAIX DIAGRAMS IN ELECTROCHEMISTRY

Abstract

In the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions and environmental preservation, the need to meet the growing energy demands of the modern world has become increasingly pressing. This challenge has ignited a concerted effort to identify and harness renewable energy sources. Fuel cells have emerged as a promising avenue in this endeavor, primarily due to their ability to derive energy from solar power and the readily available supply of water. This paper delves into the quest for efficient catalysts to facilitate the reversible process of water splitting, a critical step in hydrogen production. Furthermore, we explore the cathodic process of hydrogen oxidation in hydrogen fuel cells. This work draws inspiration from nature's hydrogenase enzymes, which exhibit remarkable efficiency in catalyzing both of these processes. The insights gained from studying hydrogenase enzymes offer valuable guidance in the design and development of hydrogenase-like catalysts, paving the way for cleaner and more sustainable energy production.