Electronic structural insights into efficient MnOx catalysts

Abstract

Soft X-ray absorption and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering at the Mn L-edge are established as tools for gaining electronic structural insights into water oxidation catalysis. The MnO_x catalyst with the lowest d–d transitions, strongest charge transfer and a higher proportion of Mn³⁺ over Mn^2+/4+ produces itinerant electrons that contribute to a higher catalytic activity.