Operando X-ray absorption spectroscopic investigation of electrocatalysts state in anion exchange membrane fuel cells

Capturing the active state of (electro)catalysts under operating conditions, namely operando, is the ultimate objective of (electro)catalyst characterization, enabling the unraveling of reaction mechanisms and advancing (electro)catalyst development. Operando insights advance our understanding of the correlations between electrochemical tests and device-level performances. However, operando characterization of electrocatalysts is challenging due to the complexity of electrochemical devices and instrumental limitations. As a result, the majority of electrocatalyst characterizations have been limited to half-cell in situ studies. Here, we present an operando X-ray absorption spectroscopic study of Mn spinel oxide electrocatalysts in an operating fuel cell employing a custom-designed cell. Our results reveal that in anion exchange membrane fuel cells, the Mn valence state, within spinel Mn₃O₄/C, increases to above 3+, adopting an octahedral coordination devoid of Jahn-Teller distortions. This structural change results in an AEMFC performance equivalent to that of Co_1.5Mn_1.5O₄/C, a composition that outperforms Mn₃O₄/C in rotating disk electrode tests. Our results underscore the importance of operando characterizations in elucidating the active state of electrocatalysts and understanding the correlation(s) between electrochemical tests and device performance.