The objective of this research is to develop and apply optical studies to characterize and improve systems for power generation and storage. Ongoing efforts include near infrared thermal imaging and FTIR emission spectroscopic studies of solid oxide fuel cells, as well as molecular spectroscopy to investigate emerging materials, such as sulfur tolerant electrodes for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Techniques being employed include a variety of in situ, real time methods capable of detecting and characterizing intermediates and material processes in electrode assemblies, such as thermal imaging, Raman, and infrared spectroscopy.