Active Mixed‐Valent MnO_<i>x</i> Water Oxidation Catalysts through Partial Oxidation (Corrosion) of Nanostructured MnO Particles

Abstract

Yes, we CAN: Partial oxidation of inactive MnO nanoparticles by CeIV as oxidant gives active MnOx catalysts that are suitable for effective photochemical and electrochemical water oxidation. The active MnOx catalyst contains mixed-valent MnII, MnIII, and MnIV species (see picture; green and violet) interconnected through oxido bridges (red) with defects and disorders. MnOx is analogous to calcium–manganese oxide systems where the calcium sites are replaced by MnII or MnIII ions.