Electrochemical Methods

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 (PCB’s) 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. Cyclic Voltammetry
2. Square Wave Voltammetry
3. Chrono-Amperometry
4. Impedance Techniques
Part 3 : Modern Electrochemical Applications
1. Battery Technology
2. Electrodepositions in Ionic Liquids
3. Lithographic Techniques in the Production of Chips
4. Metallization of Plastics
5. Electrocatalysis and the Production of Nanoparticles