Electrodeposited dendritic copper foams have been extensively studied as an electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Many parameters, such as dendrite size, porosity, pore size, and crystal faceting, define the hierarchical properties of these structures and their subsequent bubble evolution and CO2RR capabilities. Herein, the effects the electrodeposition conditions (potential, pH) have on the resulting crystallinity, microstructure, and macroporosity of the copper foam are studied. These morphological differences and the corresponding effects on electrocatalytic activity are characterized. It is shown that the composition of the electrodeposition bath can have significant effects on the mechanics of bubble formation and detachment at the surface during hydrogen evolution reaction in acidic solutions. Similarly, the electrodeposition conditions for the synthesis of the foam affect the product selectivity during CO2RR electrocatalysis. Foams deposited in alkaline electrodeposition solutions show high faradaic efficiency and specificity toward C2H6, an uncommon product of CO2RR, at modest applied potentials (−0.8 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode.

A chemistry laboratory is replete with fire hazards of many types. Fire safety and training play a vital role in controlling the risk of fire daily. The number of reported laboratory fires in the United States each year is estimated to be less than fifty. However, the actual number of laboratory fires is assumed to be much higher due to the under-reporting of actual fires to the local fire department, even if the fire was successfully extinguished. When a fire occurs in a laboratory, every second matters as laboratory personnel respond; often, the actions involve a fire extinguisher. If welltrained, a scientist using a fire extinguisher can quickly suppress and extinguish a fire during its incipient stage, protecting life and property. From personal experience, one of the authors suggests that every graduate student in chemistry learns how to use a fire extinguisher, especially those who are new and laboratory teaching assistants. Experiences like this inspired Northwestern University's Office of Research Safety and the Research Safety Student Initiative to develop a robust and sustainable fire extinguisher training program.