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Overview of Our Research

Our Electrochemical Science and Engineering Lab seeks in one hand to reveal the possibilities for sustainable energy by studying and developing the natural and induced interactions that occur between various components of the electrolyzer systems, and on the other hand understand the interfacial chemistry of dielectric materials. In Dr. Flake’s research group, we use a variety of cutting-edge technologies to push the boundaries of novel scientific discoveries. Check below for more information on our specific topics of research.

 

Research Fields

As a group, we study electrochemical processes and how materials play a critical role in advancing sustainable technologies. These processes, involving the interplay between electrical and chemical phenomena, are foundational to numerous applications such as energy conversion, storage, and environmental remediation. Below are some of our research projects

  • Electrochemical processes and materials
  • Energy storage technology
  • Electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction
  • Copper dielectric interfaces
     

Proposed common acetyl intermediate and a mechanism for selective formation of ethylene, ethanol or acetate based on the degree of partial positive charge (δ+) of Cu reaction sites

C2+ Products as a function of Cu partial positive

 

5 μm x 5 μm AFM images of the epoxy surface (a) Sample A (9 nm RMS roughness), (b) Sample B (25 nm RMS roughness), (c) Sample C (35 nm RMS roughness), (d) Sample D (50 nm RMS roughness), and (e) Sample E (92 nm RMS roughness). AFM images of the epoxy surface