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Title of the thesis: Rational design of efficient electrochemical catalysts for alkaline hydrogen conversion

Thesis defender: Benjin Jin 
Opponent: Prof. Shuang Ma Andersen, University of Southern Denmark
Custos: Prof. Tanja Kallio, Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering

Hydrogen is considered one of the most promising clean energy carriers for reducing carbon emissions and enabling sustainable energy systems. However, the widespread application of hydrogen technologies is still limited by the high cost, insufficient efficiency, and supply of electrocatalysts with long lifespan in hydrogen production and fuel cells.

This doctoral thesis studied how to design more efficient and durable electrocatalysts for clean hydrogen production and hydrogen fuel cells under alkaline conditions. The thesis developed three catalyst systems: nickel oxide quantum dots supported on amorphous carbon, ruthenium oxide modified nickel–iron layered double hydroxide on nickel foam, and titanium dioxide coated palladium nanoparticles. These catalysts were designed by controlling their nanoscale structure and interfaces, where the different material components meet and interact.

The main result of the thesis is that interface engineering provides an effective strategy to improve catalyst performance while reducing material instability. The research also brings new mechanistic understanding on how electronic interactions, surface structure, and protective oxide layers influence catalyst activity and durability.

The findings of this thesis provide new insights into the design of efficient and durable electrocatalysts and support the development of sustainable hydrogen production and hydrogen energy technologies.

Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at .