a Spectroscopic Exploration of MoMnOy- Clusters as Hydrogen Evolution Catalysts

Due to its large band gap and uniquely layered crystalline structure, MoO₃ is an attractive material in the field of organic photovoltaics. MoO₃ has also been reported to exhibit photo- and electrochromic activity, and shows great promise as a catalyst, sensing material, and electrode in lithium-ion batteries. Previous studies have explored the reactivity of the Mo_xO_y + H₂O → Mo_xO_y+1 + H₂ reaction. This most recent study introduced Mn to the Mo_xO_y structure in order to create a less oxophilic metal center. Photoelectron spectroscopy aided by a newly implemented planar ion funnel were utilized to probe the unique electronic properties of anionic MoMnO_y^- clusters reacted with H₂O, to illuminate how this substituted element impacted the two-centered mechanism of hydrogen evolution. Of particular interest were the structures of MoMnO₄^- when produced by direct laser ablation and as a product of oxidation of MnMoO₃^- with H₂O.