Micro-Spectroscopy for the Investigation of Catalytic Processes under In Situ and Operando Conditions.

Heterogeneous catalysis in thermochemical and electrochemical conversion processes is essential for the development of sustainable technologies for energy conversion, environmental remediation, biomass valorization, CO2 utilization, hydrogen production, and green synthesis. Catalyst performance depends on the nature and evolution of the active sites under reaction conditions. These dynamic systems can change surface composition, oxidation state, crystallinity, and morphology during operation, often making ex situ characterizations insufficient. In situ and operando spectroscopic techniques are therefore essential for understanding their mechanisms. Raman spectroscopy offers non-destructive analysis, high chemical specificity, sensitivity to crystalline structure and phases, the ability to study different materials and adsorbed species, and is compatible with high-temperature, controlled-atmosphere cells.