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 Rodriguez-Lopez 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 and energy storage.

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, in collaboration with the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research, for ambitiously advancing a new type of redox flow battery based on size-exclusion. In this project, highly soluble redox active polymers and colloids are used to store charge. We are intrigued by the electrochemical signatures of these polymers, and we are developing a framework that integrates concepts in electron transfer theory, single particle analysis, and polymer physics to understand the solution reactivity of polymers. Further advancing nano-materials, we are also interested in the exploration of electrochemistry across ultra-thin interfaces. For that purpose, we tailor the reactivity of ultra-thin few layer graphene electrodes by means of short-range electronic and electrostatic effects for uncovering new potential directions in energy conversion and storage. New avenues in the design of electrocatalytic platforms consisting of thin layers of electrocatalysts are also under study in our laboratory for the exploration of new strategies in the design of fuel cell electrodes.

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