Our research focuses on characterizing heterogeneous electrode materials for elucidating their function and generating new strategies to advance electrochemical energy technologies and sensing. Our objective is to pioneer powerful methods of analysis at the nano- and micro-scale for understanding how electrode structure, shape and size, as well as the formation of chemical intermediates, impact the performance of materials and interfaces for batteries, electrocatalysts and photoelectrocatalysts. The Rodríguez-López group combines interests in analytical and materials chemistry.

Analytical focus. We use novel electrochemical and chemical probes for quantifying the impact of surface chemical and structural heterogeneities (e.g. defects, strain, sub-surface modifications) on the reaction kinetics and the evolution of interfacial reactivity. We aim at performing such analysis at the micro- and nano- scale and under relevant reacting conditions – that is, in situ and operando schemes. By doing so, we push the boundaries of state-of-the-art electrochemical analysis, performing measurements under challenging conditions such as in inert atmospheres or using sensitive chemistries. We carefully design experiments and chemical strategies together with computational methods for obtaining quantitative information. We make use of an array of electrochemical, spectroscopic, chemomechanical, and clean-room fabrication methods for testing new ideas in electron transfer, catalysis, energy storage, the detection and capture of environmentally-relevant species (ROS, CO₂), and sensors. Recently we have established the use of automated, robotic systems for characterizing electrochemical systems at high throughput. 

Materials focus. On the materials side, my group is motivated by the idea that we can control the reactivity of one electrode or of an entire electrochemical device, by designing nano-scale interactions. We have used this concept for ambitiously advancing a new type of redox flow battery based on size-exclusion and by exploring the impact of interfaces on energy storage, using ultra-thin electrodes made of graphene.  New avenues in the design of electrocatalytic platforms that leverage electrostatic effects on electron transfer processes, the uncovering of design rules for electrocatalysts, and the detection of reactive intermediates on materials relevant to energy and electrosynthesis technologies are a focus of our group. 

Our group highly values creativity, diversity, and a refreshing view of electrochemical reactivity using unique tools and approaches.