Work

Interconnected mesoporous gold thin films with “near-zero” diffusion resistance for high-efficiency catalysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Achieving a high active surface area and efficient diffusion of reactants and products within electrodes is essential for developing high-performance electrocatalysts. Mesoporous metallic architectures with conductive frameworks offer an ideal solution to this challenge. However, in many cases, unimodal pores hinder effective diffusion through the electrodes. The design of mesoporous metal films with tunable and hierarchical pore architectures presents a promising strategy. Here, we report a robust method for preparing mesoporous gold (Au) films featuring vertically oriented mesochannels integrated with a mesh structure in the framework via selective dealloying. This dual-channel interconnected architecture, featuring both vertical and horizontal channels, substantially enhances the electrochemically active surface area and offers highly efficient ion and molecule diffusion pathways. This results in near-zero diffusion resistance, ultimately enhancing catalytic performance. By addressing mass transport limitations, this innovative design marks a substantial advancement in mesoporous electrocatalysts, paving the way for improved performance in future electrocatalytic applications.

Source: Chemical Engineering Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2025.170145

Authors: Asep Sugih Nugraha, Yusuke Asakura, Nasim Amiralian, Tokihiko Yokoshima, Yusuke Yamauchi

Institutions: The University of Queensland, Nagoya University, Yonsei University

Language: English

Topic: Electrocatalysts for Energy Conversion

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,830