Magnetic field enhanced electrocatalysis with sustainable materials

Magnetic field–enhanced electrocatalysis has recently emerged as a promising strategy for achieving highly efficient energy conversion and storage. Both direct and indirect studies have demonstrated the positive influence of magnetic effects on a variety of electrochemical reactions where different underlying mechanisms may apply (magnetothermal, magnetohydrodynamic, Maxwell stress, Kelvin force, and spin selectivity effects).

In this Thesis, affordable materials (e.g., nickel-based materials) with varying dimensionality and ferromagnetic character will be grown and investigated as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and other reactions of interest under the action of magnetic fields supplied by a permanent magnet. As opposed to electromagnets that consume electrical energy, using a permanent magnet allows hydrogen to be produced more efficiently without additional energy cost.

The catalysts (e.g., NiCoP, NiCo₂S₄) will be grown using the appropriate method (hydrothermal, electrodeposition…) and engineered to show large surface-to-volume ratios (macro/mesoporous films, nanoparticles, nanorods). Magnetic fields of varying intensity will be applied to investigate their effect on the HER kinetics. The interplay between magnetic field and electrolyte concentration (e.g., OH^– in alkaline media) will be studied as well. The possibility to obtain similar effects in seawater will be explored as seawater is essentially unlimited, unlike purified water, making it attractive for large-scale hydrogen production. Yet, Ni-based materials corrode faster in chloride-rich environments and hence, finding a durable catalyst remains a challenge.

Candidates should have:

• Bachelor / Master in Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Physics or related fields.
• Analytical thinking & problem-solving, ability to interpret experimental data critically.
• Scientific writing and communication skills in English.
• Teamwork and interdisciplinary mindset (materials science, physical chemistry, energy research).
• Knowledge in the Synthesis of Nanomaterials, Magnetism and Magnetic Properties of Materials, and Electrochemistry is desirable.

The SelOxCat group (Selective Redox Catalysis), where Prof. Jordi García-Antón develops his research at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona since 2011, focuses on artificial photosynthesis and the development of nanocatalysts for the production of renewable fuels such as hydrogen (H₂) and carbon-neutral fuels derived from CO₂. Their research focused on the design of hybrid (photo)electrocatalysts at the nanoscale, optimised for selectivity, stability, and efficiency in energy related catalytic processes. The group applies a wide range of methodologies, including spectroscopy, electrochemistry, electron microscopy, and crystallography, to gain insight into catalytic processes at the molecular and atomic level. Their scientific mission is to address key societal and environmental challenges, providing the catalytic foundations for sustainable energy technologies. More info can be found at the research group website: https://seloxcat.com/research/

The Gnm3 group focuses part of its research on the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials with tailored properties for cutting-edge engineering applications. We use electrochemical methods to produce advanced material architectures with high surface-area-to-volume-ratios and compositions with reduced amounts of noble metals. These materials are tested as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and, more recently, implemented in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Sustainability and energy efficiency are guiding principles of our work, shaping both the development of materials and their envisioned applications. More info can be found at the research group website: https://jsort-icrea.uab.cat/research