C-H bond activation is the first step in manufacturing chemical products from readily available light alkane feedstock and typically proceeds via carbon-intensive thermal processes. The ongoing emphasis on decarbonization via electrification motivates low-temperature electrochemical alternatives that could lead to sustainable chemicals production. Platinum (Pt) electrocatalysts have shown activity towards reacting alkanes
however, little is known about propane electrocatalytic activation and conditions suitable for enabling selective oxidation to valuable products. Herein, we utilize a combination of electrochemical mass spectrometry (ECMS) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate the potential dependence of propane activation on Pt electrocatalysts. Results show a strong dependence of adsorption on the applied potential in room-temperature aqueous acidic electrolyte, with a maximum coverage of propane-derived adsorbates at 0.30 V vs RHE. Using charge deconvolution and deuterated experiments, the mechanism of adsorption was elucidated, and C