Metal-Mediated Electrochemical Synthesis

Electrochemical deposition of reactive metals serves as a critical process in both high-energy rechargeable batteries and metal-mediated electrochemical synthesis systems. However, electrochemical synthesis systems present greater challenges compared to battery systems due to their more complicated electrolyte environments and the need to mediate multiphase reactions across solid, liquid, and gas interfaces.

Building on our experience with alkaline-earth metal anodes in rechargeable batteries, we investigate the electrodeposition behavior of multivalent metals in metal-mediated electrochemical synthesis systems. Our research focuses on understanding the fundamental deposition/dissolution mechanisms under synthesis electrolytic conditions and elucidating the synergistic effects between metal deposition and target product formation. Based on the mechanistic understandings, we develop strategies of solvation structure design and interfacial engineer, in order to stabilize reactive metal anodes in aggressive electrolytic environments. These strategies target improvements in production yield and selectivity while maintaining stable and reversible deposition/dissolution reactions even under demanding conditions of high current densities and large areal capacities.

This research establishes fundamental principles for developing electrochemical synthesis systems based on earth-abundant multivalent metal anodes. By overcoming current limitations in efficiency and stability, we envision creating sustainable alternatives to conventional energy-intensive chemical processes.