Chemistry
Designing Catalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Quick fact
The most efficient OER catalysts, like iridium oxide, are so rare and expensive that a single kilogram could cost tens of thousands of dollars, sparking a global race to find cheaper alternatives.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever watched water bubble into hydrogen and oxygen? That reaction could power a clean-energy future—but it only works if we can design the right catalyst. What makes some materials great at this, while others fail?