Current research projects in the Kitchin Research Group

JamesLandon is developing an electrochemical membrane device to separate gases like CO2, H2 and O2.

This work is funded by the National Energy Technology Laboratory and Siemens.

2. Adsorbate phase behavior on single crystal surfaces

SpencerMiller is utilizing density functional theory (DFT) to calculate the phase behavior of oxygen on transition metal surfaces. The DFT calculations are used to parameterize a cluster expansion which allows us to enumerate all possible adsorbate configurations to ensure the full phase space is explored.

This work is funded by the Department of Energy Ofiice of Basic Energy Science.

3. Thin sulfur films on catalyst surfaces and CO2 activation

NilayInoglu is studying the formation of thin sulfide films on Cu surfaces in relation to sulfur poisoning of the water gas shift reaction. She will also investigate the activation of CO2 for hydrogenation on Cu surfaces.

5. RichAlesi is investigating the separation of CO₂ from flue gas using amine-based solid sorbents. This work is funded by the National Energy Technology Laboratory.  

6. RobinChao is synthesizing new perovskite-based electrocatalysts for solid oxide fuel cell cathodes. He is developing synthetic methods that can control the surface area and microstructure to determine their role in the surface reactivity. This work is funded by the National Energy Technology Laboratory

7. Alloy decorated nanoparticles for electrocatalyst applications

Several students are working on developing synthesis strategies for making low-Pt content alloy nanoparticles for fuel cell and water splitting electrocatalysts and the utilization of these catalysts in fuel cells. 
Previous students that have worked on this project include:
Jing Chou (graduated with M.S. degree)
ShirleyHuang (now at Exxon Mobil)
DianeMattingly

CarleneUlish (now at Exxon Mobil)

Carmeline Dsilva

Alia Lubers (interning at Naval Research Lab)