Catalytic Surfaces and Photocatalysis
Group mission
The “Catalytic Surfaces and Photocatalysis” Group – led by Arik Beck – aims to drive the chemical industry toward a zero-emission future through advances in catalysis and surface science. We develop novel platform tools for automated, multidimensional operando characterization of heterogeneous catalysts and functional materials.
A central focus is the design and fundamental understanding of new catalysts for the energy transition, with particular emphasis on surface structure and reactivity. We explore unconventional catalytic processes such as photocatalysis, driven either by direct sunlight or renewable electricity-powered LEDs. Through these efforts, we strive to enable sustainable chemical transformations.
Dedicated focus of the group lies on:
- Photocatalyst design and characterization for C1 chemistry and water splitting
- Method development for transient probe molecules FTIR spectroscopy
- Advanced operando methods
- In-situ electron microscopy
Research topics and projects
Dynamic multiwavelength photocatalysis
We want to enable fast, dynamic, and site-specific control of reactivity through wavelength-specific photoexcitation of plasmonic nanocatalysts. This project aims to overcome limitations of conventional thermocatalytic process control, demonstrating potential for fine-tuned sequential reactions, adaptive operations, and enhanced chemical looping.
We focus on developing a proof-of-concept for selective CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH or CH4. This involves a catalyst with two distinct active sites – one for methanol production and one for methane production – which can be selectively activated by photons of different wavelengths.
Research funded by the Helmholtz Association with a Helmholtz Investigator Group.
Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Photocatalytic water splitting is a promising route to produce green hydrogen using sunlight, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-based energy and a key solution for decarbonizing chemical and energy sectors. However, current systems face challenges in efficiency, selectivity, and stability, limiting their practical deployment.
We aim to advance this field by integrating concepts from thermocatalysis and detailed surface characterization into the design of Z-scheme photocatalysts. Our approach focuses on understanding and engineering active centers for hydrogen and oxygen evolution, enabling precise control over charge transfer and catalytic functionality. By leveraging insights from thermal catalysis and operando characterization, we seek to develop adaptive architectures that enhance reaction selectivity and overall performance.
Cooperation
- University of California, Santa Barbara, USA
- Stanford University, USA
- Kyungpook National University, Republic of Korea
- TU Munich, Germany
- University College London UCL, United Kingdom
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