Reaction Parameters Influencing Cobalt Hydride Formation Kinetics: Implications for Benchmarking H₂‑Evolution Catalysts

The need for benchmarking hydrogen evolution catalysts has increasingly been recognized. The influence of acid choice on activity is often reduced to the overpotential for catalysis. Through the study of a stable cobalt hydride complex, we demonstrate the influence of acid choice, beyond p<i>K</i>_a, on the kinetics of hydride formation. A linear free energy relationship between acid p<i>K</i>_a and second-order rate constants is observed for weaker acids. For stronger acids, however, further increases in p<i>K</i>_a do not correlate to increases in rate constants. Further, steric bulk around the acidic proton is shown to influence rate constants dramatically. Together, these observations reveal the complex factors dictating catalyst performance

A Practical Beginner’s Guide to Cyclic Voltammetry

Despite the growing popularity of cyclic voltammetry, many students do not receive formalized training in this technique as part of their coursework. Confronted with self-instruction, students can be left wondering where to start. Here, a short introduction to cyclic voltammetry is provided to help the reader with data acquisition and interpretation. Tips and common pitfalls are provided, and the reader is encouraged to apply what is learned in short, simple training modules provided in the Supporting Information. Armed with the basics, the motivated aspiring electrochemist will find existing resources more accessible and will progress much faster in the understanding of cyclic voltammetry

A Practical Beginner’s Guide to Cyclic Voltammetry

Despite the growing popularity of cyclic voltammetry, many students do not receive formalized training in this technique as part of their coursework. Confronted with self-instruction, students can be left wondering where to start. Here, a short introduction to cyclic voltammetry is provided to help the reader with data acquisition and interpretation. Tips and common pitfalls are provided, and the reader is encouraged to apply what is learned in short, simple training modules provided in the Supporting Information. Armed with the basics, the motivated aspiring electrochemist will find existing resources more accessible and will progress much faster in the understanding of cyclic voltammetry