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Near-infrared–driven decomposition of metal precursors yields amorphous electrocatalytic films

TitleNear-infrared–driven decomposition of metal precursors yields amorphous electrocatalytic films
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2015
AuthorsSalvatore, DA, Dettelbach, KE, Hudkins, JR, Berlinguette, CP
JournalScience Advances
Volume1
Abstract

Amorphous metal-based films lacking long-range atomic order have found utility in applications ranging from electronics applications to heterogeneous catalysis. Notwithstanding, there is a limited set of fabrication methods available for making amorphous films, particularly in the absence of a conducting substrate. We introduce herein a scalable preparative method for accessing oxidized and reduced phases of amorphous films that involves the efficient decomposition of molecular precursors, including simple metal salts, by exposure to near-infrared (NIR) radiation. The NIR-driven decomposition process provides sufficient localized heating to trigger the liberation of the ligand from solution-deposited precursors on substrates, but insufficient thermal energy to form crystalline phases. This method provides access to state-of-the-art electrocatalyst films, as demonstrated herein for the electrolysis of water, and extends the scope of usable substrates to include nonconducting and temperature-sensitive platforms.

URLhttp://advances.sciencemag.org/content/1/2/e1400215
DOI10.1126/sciadv.1400215