Research Projects

This project aims to address global climate challenges by developing efficient and sustainable methods for hydrogen production through water electrolysis, leveraging its clean, high-energy, and zero-emission potential. The research focuses on the fabrication, characterization, and spectroscopic study of epitaxial heterometallic 3D-SURMOF thin films, incorporating redox-active first-row transition metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Mn) to enhance electrocatalytic water-splitting performance. Innovative surface-coordination strategies will enable the epitaxial growth of these thin films, utilizing diverse ligand nodes, such as substituted ‘4,4’-bipyridine,’ to tailor their structural, electronic, and catalytic properties. This approach seeks to improve charge transfer, reaction kinetics, and material stability under oxidative and electrochemical conditions. Advanced characterization techniques (XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy) will ensure structural integrity and reveal chemical and morphological properties. Electrochemical methods (CV, LSV, EIS) will evaluate catalytic activity, stability, and efficiency, while operando spectroscopies will uncover reaction mechanisms and dynamic changes during hydrogen evolution. The insights gained will guide optimization of metal-ligand combinations, enhancing HER efficiency and stability. This research not only advances the understanding of MOFs in electrocatalysis but also contributes to next-generation, environmentally sustainable hydrogen production technologies, supporting global efforts toward renewable energy. In conclusion, this research aims to explore the potential of epitaxial heterometallic 3D-SURMOF thin films, focusing on the diverse effects of various structural ligand nodes and redox-active heterometallic centers in enhancing the efficiency of electrocatalytic water-splitting. Through rigorous investigation and characterization, we anticipate that our findings will provide critical insights into the design and optimization of advanced electrocatalytic materials, fostering innovations in renewable energy technologies.