BIST Seminar: Bio-inspired strategies for the design of electrocatalysts for small molecule activation

Abstract

Enzymatic systems have evolved complex strategies to maximize the efficiency and product selectivity in small molecule activation, including CO₂ reduction. Besides unique active sites containing, by definition, earth-abundant elements, enzymes further control catalytic activity through second sphere interactions and a fine control of electron transfer chains. In this talk, we will introduce a series of bio-inspired strategies for the design of electrocatalytic systems for small molecule activations across multiple scales, encompassing the development of both heterogeneous and molecular catalysts. We will highlight a series of earth-abundant metal-based molecular and heterogeneous catalysts inspired by the active sites of enzymatic systems. Particular emphasis will be given to the exploration of bio-inspired strategies for electron transfers and storage, using synthetic Fe₄S₄clusters.