Electrochemical Methods

About...
Edward Matthijs (1968) obtained a master degree in Chemical Engineering (1990 -KaHo, Ghent) and a PhD in sciences - Chemistry at the Catholique University of Leuven (2003). Besides teaching Electrochemistry at KaHo Ghent and at the University of Leuven, he was and is involved in several research projects dealing with galvanotechnic technologies.

For further information please contact :

Dr. Edward Matthijs University College KAHO St. Lieven Affiliated partner of University Leuven Department of Chemical Engineering Gebr. Desmetstraat 1 B-9000 GHENT BELGIUM Phone: ++32 (0)9 265 86 10 Fax: ++32 9 (0)9 225 62 69 Email: Edward.Matthijs@kahosl.be URL: www.kahosl.be

Seminar

Electrochemical

Methods

Abstract

Many developments in modern chemistry rely on electrochemical principles. However, electrochemistry is not the most accessible field in chemistry. This is partly due to the fact that electrochemical reactions occur at a surface : things can become complicated quite fast : an adsorption or desorption step of reagents or products can be required, the surface can catalyze the reaction, limitations of material transport towards the surface by diffusion, migration or convection or chemical reactions preceding or following the electrode reaction can occur. On the other hand the possibility of an easy control over the reaction rate of the redox reaction is an undeniable advantage. Usually, the mechanisms are too complex and limiting cases are saught for. Some time is required before these approximations can be recognized. The help of an experienced electrochemist might be advisable. The course does not intend to overwhelm the attendants with mathematical theories, typical for fundamental electrochemistry. It is aimed at to give a brief but clear introduction of the different phenomena occuring at the electrode surface. Though classic techniques such as polarography are still important for analytical purposes, many modern electrochemical techniques have recently been developed for fundamental studies of electrochemical reactions. Cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry, impedance techniques are widely accepted methods to study electrochemical problems. Each technique has its advantages and drawbacks. Again, interpretation of collected data requires some experience. These modern electrochemical techniques will be treated in the course. Their strength will be shown with hands-on examples. Furthermore, some recent developments based on electrochemistry will be discussed. This includes - the evolution of battery technology (NiMH, Li-ion, Li-polymer etc.) - electrodepositions of metals that can impossibly be plated in aqueous solutions (Ti, Al, Mg etc.), semi-conductors (Si, Ge etc.) or conducting polymers in ionic liquids, salts liquid at temperatures lower than 100 C. - production of chips and printed circuit boards (PCBs) with lithographic techniques - metallization of plastics - electrocatalysis and the production of nanoparticles An English syllabus is available.

Content
Part 1 : Fundamental Aspects of Electrochemistry
1. Thermodynamics of a redox reaction - the Galvanic cell - Nernst law 2. Mass-transport controlled reactions - diffusion, migration and convection to an electrode surface - diffusion control : the Cottrell equation - convective transport : the rotating disk electrode 3. Kinetically controlled reactions - kinetic parameters of an electrochemical reaction - the Butler - Volmer equation - Tafel plots

Part 2 : Electrochemical Methods

1. 2. 3. 4. Cyclic Voltammetry Square Wave Voltammetry Chrono-Amperometry Impedance Techniques

Part 3 : Modern Electrochemical Applications

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Battery Technology Electrodepositions in Ionic Liquids Lithographic Techniques in the Production of Chips Metallization of Plastics Electrocatalysis and the Production of Nanoparticles