Research Groups

Catalysis with Oxides

Group leader: Annette Trunschke

Metal oxides exhibit remarkable chemical diversity, enabling a wide range of functional applications. Our group investigates how synthesis routes influence the catalytic properties of metal oxides and oxide-supported nanoparticles and how these materials transform into active phases under reaction conditions. more

Catalysis with Metals

Group leader: Katarzyna Skorupska

Our group investigates lifecycle of catalysts in thermal catalysis, with a focus on hydrogenation reactions important for cleaner chemical production. We are developing a new platform—Laterally Condensed Catalysts (LCCs)—that offers precise control over catalyst interfaces hence reactivity. By combining operando and in situ spectroscopy with dedicated design of reactor systems, we aim to better understand and optimize catalysts for greener, more energy-efficient chemical processes. more

Electronic structure

Group leader: Axel Knop-Gericke

The electronic structure of catalytically active solid/gas-phase and solid/liquid interfaces is our main interest. We perform synchrotron based in-situ/operando X-ray absorption (XAS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements to study structure-function relations. The measurements were supported by DFT calculations. more

Liquid-vapor interfaces

Group leader: Hendrik Bluhm

The focus of the group is on the investigation of aqueous interfaces, in particular ice/vapor and liquid/vapor interfaces. Heterogeneous reactions at these interfaces drive many processes in the environment and atmosphere. Examples are the capture and release of trace gases by aerosol droplets and the sequestration of CO₂ by the oceans. more

Electron Microscopy

The Electron Microscopy group focuses on the structural understanding of heterogeneous catalysts and chemical energy converters, using state-of-the-art X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy methods. In doing so, we seek to uncover the differences between local and averaged structures and to understand their chemical relationship to catalysis. To this end, our portfolio includes not only detailed X-ray diffraction analysis and chemical electron microscopy, but also operando and quasi in situ measurements for X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. more