Detangling Catalyst Modification Reactions from the Oxygen Evolution Reaction by Online Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Here we showcase the synthesis and catalytic response of the anionic iridium(III) complex [IrCl 3 (pic)(MeOH)] − ([ 1 ] −, pic = picolinate) toward the evolution of oxygen. Online electrochemical mass spectrometry experiments illustrate that an initial burst of CO 2 due to catalyst degradation is expelled before the oxygen evolution reaction commences. Electrochemical features and XPS analysis illustrate the presence of iridium oxide, which is the true active species.