Invited speakers

back

EMMA RICHARDS

Title of presentation:

EPR Investigations of Earth Abundant W-TiO2 and Mo-TiO2 Nano-architectures for Photoelectron Storage and PEC Water Splitting


Education
2007 PhD Cardiff University, UK
2003 BSc(Hons) Natural Sciences, University of Bath, UK

Professional Career

2015 University Research Fellow, Cardiff University
2007-2015 Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Cardiff University

Professional Memberships
RSC EPR Committee Member
Royal Society of Chemistry
Fellow of Higher Education Academy

Interests
The research interests of the group focus on utilizing the powerful technique of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and associated hyperfine methodologies [e.g. Electron Nuclear Double Resonance (ENDOR) and Hyperfine Sublevel Correlation Spectroscopy (HYSCORE)] to study catalytic processes. In particular, we are interested in developing new systems for homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions that utilise Earth Abundant elements to promote selective and facile catalysis. Our group has developed a range of doped oxide-based nanomaterials used as photocatalysts for environmental remediation and heterogeneous catalysts. It is well recognised that photogenerated charge carriers participate in redox reactions with surface adsorbed species, in many cases forming reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oxidative pathways. Elucidating the mechanistic details of electron transfer processes is a fundamental requirement for enabling the rational design of novel, highly active, photocatalysts. EPR spectroscopy can provide an atomic level description of the nanomaterial, elucidate the reactive sites within lattice environments, identify surface adsorbed reaction intermediates and hence provide a unique insight to the reaction pathways in photocatalytic mechanisms.
Outside of work, I can regularly be found playing tennis, walking in the outdoors or watching sports.