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Bimetallic particle in an electrochemical system

Professor Janik’s group uses atomistic modeling techniques, mainly first principles based electronic structure methods, to probe the relationship between the structure/c omposition of catalytic materials and their activity and selectivity. Specific emphasis is placed on catalytic processes of relevance to alternative energy conversion technologies, and current research concentrates on electro-catalytic systems such as fuel cell electrodes.


Figure Caption: An atomistic model of a supported bimetallic particle in an electrochemical system.

Probing the building blocks of matter

Colloidal "nanoparticles" are 1 to 100 nanometers in size. Their small size gives them unique electronic, optical, and magnetic properties; and so these building blocks are expected to revolutionize products from computer chips to pharmaceuticals. Professor Matsoukas' group is studying how to use TiO 2 nanoparticles (atomic force microscope image shown) to increase reaction rates and reduce air pollution.



Remediating contaminated soil

Bacteria can be used to "digest" many soil contaminants, such as PCBs and toluene. Understanding bacterial adhesion is a critical link in using bacteria for remediation. Professor Velegol's group measures particle-particle forces with video microscopy and analytical equations, obtaining force resolutions of less than 1 piconewton. Measurements of these forces could lead to a better understanding of how lipopolysaccharides influence bacterial adhesion.