IREC co-organized a successful workshop on in situ /operando techniques
The Workshop on In Situ/Operando Characterization of Chemical and Electrochemical Energy Processes was a success, drawing in nearly 100 young scientists and researchers eager to expand their expertise on these techniques. Organized by the InCAEM project, ALBA Synchrotron, the Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemistry (ICP-CSIC), the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), and the Catalonia Institute for Energy Research (IREC), the workshop took place on November 8, 2024, at the ALBA Synchrotron Centre in Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona.
The workshop’s primary objective was to provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the capabilities and applications of various in situ and operando techniques in different energy processes. These techniques are essential for observing and measuring dynamic changes within materials and systems under realistic operating conditions which is critical for the advancement of energy technologies. In situ and operando analyses offer:
- Detailed insights into energy conversion and storage processes, allowing scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms involved.
- Real-time data on ongoing processes, which enables researchers to fine-tune and optimize both the materials used and the operational parameters, leading to improved performance and efficiency.
Through expert-led presentations and practical examples, attendees gained valuable insights and practical guidance on a range of in situ and operando techniques, including UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), vibrational spectroscopies, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Each technique was presented with a focus on its unique contributions to the field, offering a comprehensive understanding of the impact of these techniques in advancing energy technologies.
Moreover, throughout the workshop, the event provided an excellent opportunity for attendees to exchange experiences and knowledge, fostering scientific networking and collaboration. These interactions proved essential in facilitating connections among researchers, strengthening scientific bonds, and laying the foundation for future collaborations. Such gatherings underscore the primary objective of the workshop, not only to expand technical expertise, but also to promote professional relationships within the scientific community.
The workshop concluded with a tour of the ALBA Synchrotron Centre, allowing participants to witness firsthand the state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies that drive research at ALBA.
This event reinforces IREC’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving the development of sustainable energy solutions for a more resilient future.
Acknowledgements
The workshop was supported by the SyDECat project from the Spanish MCIN/AEI/FEDER (PID2022-136883OB-C22), the 2BoSS project of the ERA-MIN3 program (PCI2022-132985/AEI/10.13039/501100011033) and the HealingBat project of the HORIZON-CL5-2022-D2-01 call (101104006).
Organized by:
