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ECS has named 13 members to the 2024 Class of ECS Fellows. The designation "Fellow of The Electrochemical Society" was established in 1989 for advanced individual technological contributions to the fields of electrochemistry and solid state science and technology, and for service to the Society. These members are recognized for scientific achievement, leadership, and active participation in ECS affairs. Each year, their peers choose up to 15 renowned scientists and engineers for this honor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall 2024 People News features news about Ion Storage, the ECS-sponsored Gordon Research Conference on Aqueous Corrosion, the 8th Baltic Electrochemistry Conference, and remembrances of Dennis H. Evans, Luby Romankiw, and Fred C. Anson [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a simple and effective hydrothermal method has been used to synthesize a nanocomposite of nickel oxide and molybdenum disulphide. Structural and optical characterizations of the as-synthesised MoS2/NiO nanocomposite nanoparticles were carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-visible spectroscopy techniques. The major peaks of MoS2 and NiO were detected in XRD, confirming the formation of a composite. The reduced band gap of 2.84 eV of MoS2/NiO nanocomposite, as compared to pure NiO with a 3.1 eV bandgap, indicates a blue shift. The surface morphology of MoS2/NiO nanocomposite was measured using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, showing a sheet-like structure with fine particles overlaid on them. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to determine the processes of charge transfer between electrodes, diffusion of molecules and ions within the electrolyte solution, and ion adsorption on the surface of the the electrode. The as-prepared composite shows an enhanced specific capacitance of 246 F g−1 at20 mV sec−1, a scan rate of which was more than both base materials in pristine form. EIS results thus obtained may give a new direction for supercapacitor applications with the as-synthesized sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ECS recognizes outstanding technical achievements in electrochemistry, solid state science, and related technologies, along with exceptional service to the Society. Read about 2024 award winners and ECS award opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noble metal-based electrochemical sensor design for efficient and stable formaldehyde(FA) detection is important ongoing research. In this paper, PtPd/Nafion/GCE is prepared by electrochemical cyclic voltammetry deposition method based on electrodepositing nanostructured platinum (Pt)-palladium (Pd) nanoparticles in Nafion film-coated glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The influence of deposition parameters and chemical composition (atomic ratio of Pt and Pd) on the electrochemical behaviour of PtPd/Nafion/GCE has been investigated. PtPd/Nafion/GCE displays a remarked electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of FA and exhibits a linear relationship in the range of 10–5000 μ M, with a detection limit of 3.3 μ M in 0.1 M H2SO4 solution. It is proved that the detection performance of PtPd/Nafion/GCE electrode is valuable for further application with low detection limit, wide linear range, favourable selectivity and high response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful analytical technique that has found application in the trace detection of a wide range of contaminants. In this paper, we report on the fabrication of 2D silver nanodendrites, on silicon chips, synthesized by electrochemical reduction of AgNO3 at microelectrodes. The formation of nanodendrites is tentatively explained in terms of electromigration and diffusion of silver ions. Electrochemical characterization suggests that the nanodendrites do not stay electrically connected to the microelectrode. The substrates show SERS activity with an enhancement factor on the order of 106. Density functional theory simulations were carried out to investigate the suitability of the fabricated substrate for pesticide monitoring. These substrates can be functionalized with cyclodextrin macro molecules to help with the detection of molecules with low affinity with silver surfaces. A proof of concept is demonstrated with the detection of the herbicide 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A support vector regression model was trained to predict the area specific resistance of solid oxide cell stacks from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. In particular, the minimum necessary frequency range required for accurate predictions was investigated. Therefore, 711 pairs of DC polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, conducted at the same stage of stack degradation and under similar measurement conditions, were evaluated. Prediction accuracies of less than 8% mean absolute percentage error and coefficients of determination greater than 93% were achieved. The 101–102 Hz range is sufficient for accurate predictions, allowing an efficient and non-destructive etimation of DC polarization measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both the size and crystallinity should be optimized for practical applications utilizing metallic nanoparticles because they strongly influence the nanoparticles property. Herein a liquid phase chemical reduction method controls the defects (crystallinity) in metallic Cu nanoparticles simply and easily. Although the addition of an impurity substance, which cannot be thermodynamically alloyed with Cu, reduces the crystallinity of synthesized Cu nanoparticles, it also affects the deposition behavior, and consequently, the nanoparticle size changes unexpectedly. Therefore, a precise control of the synthesis condition is required to synthesize the nanoparticles having optimal size and crystallinity. To clarify the nanoparticle formation mechanism in an impurity-containing solution, the catalytic activity of the reductant and the redox potential change due to the metastable product are electrochemically evaluated to reveal the correlation between nanoparticle formation behavior and synthesis condition. Finally, the synthesis of two types of Cu nanoparticles, which have similar sizes but different crystallinities is demonstrated. This simple nanomaterial design approach to control the crystallinity and the interpretation of the deposition process in an impurity-containing condition should be widely applicable to metallic nanoparticle syntheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Znic-based metal–organic framework materials (ZIF-8) show great potential and excellent performance in the fields of sensing and catalysis. However, powdered metal–organic framework makes it easy to lose in the process of application. Herein, we use a simple blending electrostatic spinning method to combine ZIF-8 particles with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers. ZIF-8/PAN composite nanofiber membrane. The ZIF-8/PAN nanofiber membrane is characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and N2 adsorption–desorption. The results show that the ZIF-8/PAN nanofiber membrane has the characteristic peaks of XRD and FTIR, which are consistent with those of simulated ZIF-8. The specific surface area of ZIF-8/PAN nanofiber membrane increases from 13.5371 to 711.4171 m2 g−1 due to the introduction of ZIF-8 particles. The sensor using the nanofiber membrane as the gas sensing layer shows good response and linear correlation to different concentrations of acetone gas. The minimum detection limit of the sensor for acetone is 51.9 ppm. The blank control shows that the response of the sensor to acetone is mainly due to the introduction of ZIF-8 particles. In addition, the sensor also shows a good cyclic response to acetone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ECS recognizes outstanding technical achievements in electrochemistry, solid state science, and related technologies, along with exceptional service to the Society. ECS award opportunities are provided in the categories of Society Awards, Division Awards, Section Awards, and Student Awards. Recognizing that today's emerging scientists are the next generation of leaders in our field, ECS offers competitive fellowships and grants that enable students andyoung professionals to make discoveries and shape science long into the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite limited commercial success, lithium sulfur technology (LST) is still far from competing existing Li-ion technology. One of the main reasons hindering the success of LST is the complexity of lithium-sulfur chemistry during electrochemical charging and discharging. Dissolution of sulfur species in the electrolyte solution exacerbates the difficulties of this system. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of sulfur species and their kinetics during charge/discharge process is paramount for a high-performance lithium-sulfur battery. We present a new technique we refer to as Ampero-Coulometry, which takes the chronoamperometric (galvanostatic) charge-discharge curves and mathematically transforms them to a series of curves that reveal the cation diffusional rate inside carbon-sulfur porous electrodes at different states of charge/capacity. This technique allowed us to track the overall Li+ ion diffusional rate inside a Li-S cell over a complete state of discharge. As dissolution of sulfur species and their interplay inside a porous sulfur electrode has a significant role in limiting Li-S battery capacity, and method allows correlation between the known mechanism of polysulfide dissolution, the kinetics of a sulfur electrode, and its response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is used widely in electrochemistry. Obtaining EIS data is simple with modern electrochemical workstations. Yet, analyzing EIS spectra is still a considerable quandary. The distribution of relaxation times (DRT) has emerged as a solution to this challenge. However, DRT deconvolution underlies an ill-posed optimization problem, often solved by ridge regression, whose accuracy strongly depends on the regularization level λ. This article studies the selection of λ using several cross-validation (CV) methods and the L-curve approach. A hierarchical Bayesian DRT (hyper-λ) deconvolution method is also analyzed, whereby, λ0 a parameter analogous to, λ is obtained through CV. The analysis of a synthetic dataset suggests that the values of λ selected by generalized and modified generalized CV are the most accurate among those studied. Furthermore, the analysis of synthetic EIS spectra indicates that the hyper-λ approach outperforms optimal ridge regression. Due to its broad scope, this research will foster additional research on the vital topics of hyperparameter selection for DRT deconvolution. This article also provides, through pyDRTtools, an implementation, which will serve as a starting point for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) have emerged as an advantageous choice for constructing biosensors due to their remarkable water compatibility, low operating voltage, and inherent amplification capability. However, the current research on bio-sensing based on OECTs predominantly employs p–type material PEDOT:PSS as the channel material. Nevertheless, the utilization of a single material and its depleting characteristics impose significant limitations on device miniaturization and integration applications. We present a high-sensitivity glucose sensor based on n-channel accumulation-type OECT through immobilization the glucose oxidase on Pt gate electrode with an blending approach. The glucose oxidase directly mixed with bovine serum albumin, chitosan and immolizied on the gate electode, demonstrating a stable and sensitive response to the glucose. The modified n-channel organic electrochemical transistor demonstrates a highly sensitive response to glucose across a concentration range from μ M to mM, with a quantified stable sensitivity over 2.69 mmol ^–1 by normalizing the current change with respect to concentration. The device also exhibits selectivity towards glucose (compared with high concentrations of lactic acid, different concentration gradients of ascorbic acid, and uric acid), rendering it suitable for noninvasive glucose detection in body fluid like sweat, saliva etc This flexible and ensitive electrochemical transistor sensor holds immense potential for the development of potable healthcare biosensing.

Dinobuton is a fungicide with a dinitrophenol group pesticide, and its electrochemical behavior was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave stripping voltammetry (SWSV) on a multi-walled carbon nanotube paste electrode (MWCNTPE). First of all, optimum parameters such as pH, step potential, frequency, puls amplitude, deposition time and, deposition potential were specified by using SWSV on the MWCNTPE. In the negative potential scans, two cathodic peaks appeared at nearly −480 mV and –760 mV due to the nitro groups on the molecule and the second sharp one appeared at −760 mV (versus Ag/AgCl) was used for analytical purposes. The linear working range was found to be within 3.74–25.8 μ M on the MWCNTPE by SWSV in pH 7.0 Britton Robinson (BR) buffer solution. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values were found to be 0.73 μ M and 2.43 μ M, respectively. The interference study was conducted in the presence of some pesticides such as triasulfuron, azinphos-methyl, bromoxynil-octanoate, dialifos, fipronil, vinclozolin, iprodione, procymidone, and some selected metal ions withal. Furthermore, the proposed method was also applied to apple juice, tap water, and grape juice, and percent recoveries (%) were detected as 105.9 ± 4.3; 98.3 ± 0.9; 103.7 ± 2.5% with relative standard deviations of 4.0, 1.0, and 2.4%, respectively. On the other hand, percent relative errors were calculated as 5.90, 1.65, and 3.74%, respectively. High recoveries and low relative standard deviations indicate that the applicability of the proposed method in both matrix and real samples is satisfying.

There is a plethora of electrochemical biosensors developed for ultrasensitive detection of clinically relevant biomarkers. However, many of these systems lose their performance in heterogeneous clinical samples and are too complex to be operated by end users at the point-of-care (POC), prohibiting their commercial success. Integration of biosensors with sample processing technology addresses both of these challenges; however, it adds to the manufacturing complexity and the overall cost of these systems. Herein, we review the different components of a biosensor and avenues for creating fully integrated systems. In the context of integration, we focus on discussing the trade-offs between sensing performance, cost, and scalable manufacturing to guide the readers toward designing new electrochemical biosensors with commercialization potential.

Layered P2-Na _0.67 Ni _0.15 Fe _0.2 Mn _0.65 O _2 (P2-NFM) cathode material has attracted great attention in sodium-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, P2-NFM exhibits irreversible phase transition and slip of transition metal layers in the high voltage range during charging process, leading to a gradually declined performance of the cathode material. It is therefore necessary to investigate the mechanism of phase transition of P2-NFM as well as the effect of phase transition on its performance. Herein, utilizing ex situ x-ray diffraction spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the crystal structure and TM (transition-metal) bonding changes caused by phase transition are elucidated. It is found that P2-NFM is prone to undergo an irreversible P2-O2 phase transition at high voltage, causing changes in lattice parameters and rapid capacity decay. The irreversible phase transition is mainly due to he dynamic transformation of valence states of Fe and Ni in P2-NFM materials at high voltage. It is this process that results in irreversible fluctuations in the bond lengths between these elements and oxygen, consequently instigating interlayer slip within the material. Besides, the charge compensation mechanism of P2-NFM has been elucidated based on the study of its initial charging process. Results show that the charge compensation is mainly contributed by Ni and Fe in the high voltage range, while by a small amount of Mn in the low voltage range. It reveals the essential cause of the adverse phase transition of P2-NFM materials and points out the direction for improving the cycling stability of these layered oxide materials.

The service life of weathering steels in wagon body was determined by their corrosion resistance directly. This study investigated the influence of microstructure on the initial corrosion behavior of low carbon steels, systematically. The initial corrosion behavior of ferritic-bainitic (F+B) steel, bainitic (B) steel and ferritic-pearlitic (F+P) steel are thoroughly analyzed using coal leach solution immersion test, macroscopic and microcircuit electrochemical methods. The results revealed that F+B steel exhibited the highest corrosion resistance, with the potential of M-A islands surpassing that of ferrite. The initial corrosion initiates from the dissolution of the ferrite matrix, followed by detachment of the M-A islands. The potential of M-A islands is higher than that of bainitic ferrite lath, and the corrosion originates from ferrite dissolution in B steel. Moreover, F+P steel exhibited the largest potential difference between pearlitic and ferrite, leading to initiation of corrosion from the pearlitic corrosion of internal ferrite. Additionally, the multiphase characteristics of P in F+P steel exacerbates their corrosion susceptibility. Overall, the influence of microstructure on the initial corrosion behavior of low carbon steels can be attributed to the potential difference between different phases. Ferrite is the preferentially dissolved phase due to its negative potential difference.

Suitable reaction cells are critical for operando near ambient pressure (NAP) soft x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) studies. They enable tracking the chemical state and structural properties of catalytically active materials under realistic reaction conditions, and thus allow a better understanding of charge transfer at the liquid–solid interface, activation of reactant molecules, and surface intermediate species. In order to facilitate such studies, we have developed a top-side illuminated operando spectro-electrochemical flow cell for synchrotron-based NAP-XPS/-NEXAFS studies. Our modular design uses a non-metal (PEEK) body, and replaceable membranes which can be either of x-ray transparent silicon nitride (SiN _x ) or of water permeable polymer membrane materials (e.g. Nafion ^TM ). The design allows rapid sample exchange and simultaneous measurements of total electron yield, Auger electron yield and fluorescence-yield. The developed system is highly modular and can be used in the laboratory or directly at the beamline for operando XPS/ x-ray absorption spectroscopy investigations of surfaces and interfaces. We present examples to demonstrate the capabilities of the flow cell. These include an operando NEXAFS study of the Cu-redox chemistry using a SiN _x /Ti-Au/Cu working electrode assembly (WEA) and a NAP-XPS/-NEXAFS study of water adsorption on a Nafion ^TM polymer membrane based WEA (Nafion ^TM /C/IrO _x catalyst). More importantly, the spectro-electrochemical flow cell is available for user community of B07 beamlines at Diamond Light Source.

Protonic ceramic electrochemical cells provide an excellent basis for the advancement of high-temperature solid oxide devices, offering potential solutions to a range of challenges in the hydrogen energy and carbon capture fields. The facilitated ionic transport in proton-conducting electrolytes enables these cells to operate at temperatures 100 °C–500 °C lower than those of conventional solid oxide cells with known zirconia electrolytes. As a result, promising performances have been reported for various types of proton ceramic electrochemical cells. Nevertheless, these advancements have been demonstrated only at the laboratory scale, whereas their ZrO _2 -based counterparts have already been commercialized. This review presents an overview of the fundamental and applied aspects related to the fabrication of tubular protonic ceramic electrochemical cells and their subsequent characterization as hydrogen permeation membranes, hydrogen pumps, hydrogen sensors, fuel cells, electrolysis cells, and electrochemical reactors. A specific focus is placed on the technological aspects of the tube preparations derived from the original powder sources as well as the dimensional characteristics of the tubes, which serve as an indicator of scaling. Therefore, this review serves as a starting point for the development and scaling of protonic ceramic electrochemical cells, with the potential for large-scale production.

In this work, the porous CoS2/N-doped carbon polyhedra (P-CoS2/CP) has been developed by employing ZIF-67 as the template for durable lithium-ion battery anode. The as-prepared P-CoS2/CP exhibits the novel dodecahedron structure filling with nanopores and CoS2 nanoparticles. As compared to CoS2/CP (122 m2 gâˆ'1), the P-CoS2/CP possesses the higher specific surface area of 367 m2 gâˆ'1, which benefits to enlarge the electrode-electrolyte contact area and promote the Li+ diffusion dynamics at high current density. On the other hand, the CoS2 nanoparticles are firmly wrapped by the carbon skeleton which can effectively suppresses the volume expansion of CoS2 during the charging/discharging process. Besides, the N-doping enable to improve the conductivity of CP. As a result, the initial discharge capacity of P-CoS2/CP at 0.1 A gâˆ'1 is 1484.7 mAh gâˆ'1 with the coulombic efficiency of 48.9%. After 100 cycles, the reversible capacity stabilized at 726.2 mAh gâˆ'1. Even the current density increases to 2.0 A gâˆ'1, a high reversible capacity of 353.7 mAh gâˆ'1 can still be achieved, realizing the good rate capability. The superior Li+ performance of P-CoS2/CP is attributed to the synergistic effect of the unique multi-space structure and the high chemical activity of CoS2. Moreover, the Li+ diffusion coefficient of P-CoS2/CP is 4.52 × 10âˆ'6 to 1.98 × 10âˆ'11 cm2 sâˆ'1, which is higher than that of CoS2/CP (1.45 × 10âˆ'9 to 5.23 × 10âˆ'11 cm2 sâˆ'1), highlighting the significance of porous engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simple, scalable two-step method for direct-write laser fabrication of 3D, porous graphene-like carbon electrodes from polyimide films with integrated contact plugs to underlying metal layers (Au or Ni). Irradiation at high average CO2 laser power (30 W) and low scan speed (∼18 mm s)âˆ'1 leads to formation of ‘keyhole’ contact plugs through local ablation of polyimide (initial thickness 17 ÎĽ m) and graphitization of the plug perimeter wall. Top-surface laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrodes are then formed and connected to the plug by raster patterning at lower laser power (3.7 W) and higher scan speed (200 mm s)âˆ'1. Sheet resistance data (71 ± 15 Ω sq.)âˆ'1 indicates formation of high-quality surface LIG, consistent with Raman data which yield sharp first- and second-order peaks. We have also demonstrated that high-quality LIG requires a minimum initial polyimide thickness. Capacitance data measured between surface LIG electrodes and the buried metal film indicate a polyimide layer of thickness ∼7 ÎĽ m remaining following laser processing. By contrast, laser graphitization of polyimide of initial thickness ∼8 ÎĽ m yielded devices with large sheet resistance (>1 kΩ sq.)âˆ'1. Raman data also indicated significant disorder. Plug contact resistance values were calculated from analysis of transfer line measurement data for single- and multi-plug test structures. Contacts to buried nickel layers yielded lower plug resistances (1-plug: 158 ± 7 Ω, 4-plug: 31 ± 14 Ω) compared to contacts to buried gold (1-plug: 346 ± 37 Ω, 4-plug: 52 ± 3 Ω). Further reductions are expected for multi-plug structures with increased areal density. Proof-of-concept mm-scale LIG electrochemical devices with local contact plugs yielded rapid electron transfer kinetics (rate constant k 0 ∼ 0.017 cm sâˆ'1), comparable to values measured for exposed Au films (k 0 ∼0.023 cm s)âˆ'1. Our results highlight the potential for integration of LIG-based sensor electrodes with semiconductor or roll-to-roll manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a variety of synthetic protocols including hydrothermal and microwave-assisted methods, the morphology of as-prepared magnetite has been reliably altered as a means of probing the effect of facet variations upon the resulting electrochemical processes measured. In particular, motifs of magnetite, measuring ∼100 to 200 nm in diameter, were variously prepared in the form of cubes, spheres, octahedra, and plates, thereby affording the opportunity to preferentially expose either (111), (220), or (100) planes, depending on the geometry in question. We deliberately prepared these samples, characterized using XRD and SEM, in the absence of a carbonaceous surfactant to enhance their intrinsic electrochemical function. Herein, we present a direct electrochemical comparison of specifically modified shape morphologies possessing 3 different facets and their impact as electrode materials for Liion batteries. Our overall data suggest that the shapes exhibiting the largest deliverable capacities at various current densities incorporated the highest surface energy facets, such as exposed (220) planes in this study. The faceted nature of different morphologies highlighted a trend in electrochemistry of (220) > (111) > (100); moreover, the degree of aggregation and polydispersity in prepared samples were found to play key roles as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing can realize almost any designed geometry, enabling the fabrication of innovative products for advanced applications. Local electrochemical plating is a powerful approach for additive manufacturing of metal microstructures; however, previously reported data have been mostly obtained with copper, and only a few cases have been reported with other elements. In this study, we assessed the ability of fluidic force microscopy to produce Niâ€"Mn and Niâ€"Co alloy structures. Once the optimal deposition potential window was determined, pillars with relatively smooth surfaces were obtained. The printing process was characterized by printing rates in the range of 50â€"60 nm sâˆ'1. Cross-sections exposed by focused ion beam showed highly dense microstructures, while the corresponding face scan with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy spectra revealed a uniform distribution of alloy components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein fold and slow relaxation times impose constraints on configurations sampled by the protein. Incomplete sampling leads to the violation of fluctuation-dissipation relations underlying the traditional theories of electron transfer. The effective reorganization energy of electron transfer is strongly reduced thus leading to lower barriers and faster rates (catalytic effect). Electrochemical kinetic measurements support low activation barriers for protein electron transfer. The distance dependence of the rate constant displays a crossover from a plateau at short distances to a long-distance exponential decay. The transition between these two regimes is controlled by the protein dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately quantifying applied potential is important to ensuring the comparability, accuracy, and precision of electrochemical studies. Reference electrodes (REs) enable knowledge/determination of the applied potential at electrodes in electrochemical systems. Ultimately, the choice of RE will depend on the particular requirements of a given electrochemical system, however, we note it is imperative to ensure the accuracy of the RE potential and its proper translation to a standardized scale. In this work, we highlight that while there are many commercially available REs, these must be experimentally calibrated to a reliable and practical standard potential scale, for instance the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) scale for aqueous systems. With representative data, we provide streamlined instructions on how to calibrate any RE to the RHE scale. We also provide guidance to mitigate and/or avoid possible electrolyte contamination issues arising from REs. Moreover, we offer a step-by-step guide on how to build a practical RHE RE, which may be a suitable and desirable option in certain applications. Our work emphasizes the need for the continuous adoption of standardized reference potential scales and demonstrates the versatility of the RHE scale, particularly in aqueous electrochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemistry of liquid Ga electrodes in aqueous media was examined in the presence of praseodymium acetate (PrOAc) as an alternate path for low temperature reduction of rare earth elements (REE). This study investigated the aqueous electrochemistry of Ga with and without REEs (Pr). Cyclic voltammetry experiments showed that in the presence of PrOAc, an order of magnitude increase in cathodic current was observed for the Ga electrode, compared to that in the absence of Pr. Decrease in the reduction current with the increase of scan rate, with and without Pr, suggests catalytic reactions following electron transfer, which was attributed to the Ga2O disproportionation reaction. Chronoamperometric experiments performed in Pr containing solutions formed a precipitate. Over 50% of the Pr ions from the aqueous electrolyte were immobilized in the precipitate; a solid Ga-rich phase. Formation of this precipitate was only possible when Ga oxidation was induced. This condition was achieved by circulation of liquid Ga from the pool via external pump and returned dropwise to the liquid Ga pool. When the collected precipitate was leached in dilute HCl, Pr was released with H2 evolved as a byproduct, and Ga returned to its initial liquid metallic state. These preliminary results show encouraging new routes that could be applied for the recovery of diluted REE leachates, such as those obtained from magnets, coal fly ash, and ores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illicit methamphetamine is known to be the most manufactured amphetamine-type stimulants worldwide. Relatively simple manufacturing procedure had resulted in the creations of manufacturing sites in a variety of premises and structures, deserving forensic investigation. Therefore, this study was aimed to develop an electrochemical detection technique to determine the residual methamphetamine contamination on various surfaces. Carbon materials, namely graphene oxide, graphene nanoplatelets, graphene ink, and glassy carbon microsphere modified glassy carbon electrode were used in detecting methamphetamine by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The surface morphology modified electrode was characterised and its electrochemical behaviour was determined. Under optimal conditions, the calibration curve showed bilinear in the concentration range of 1-40 µM and 40 -120 µM with good precision and accuracy. The limit of detection was determined to be 0.3 µM. Graphene oxide modified electrode coupled with DPV successfully detected the residual methamphetamine on four household surfaces, including glass, stainless steel, plastic, and varnished wood with recoveries greater than 82%. To conclude, a novel electrochemical detection technique for the presence of methamphetamine was successfully developed to be applied in clandestine laboratory settings. It would be beneficial to assist the forensic investigation, especially for those forensic evidence recovered from suspicious and suspected clandestine laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoplates of Cu2WSe4 (∼50 nm) were synthesized via a hot-injection method by one-pot selenation of WCl6 and Cu(acac)2. This synthetic route provided another perspective towards the intrinsic electrochemical properties of Cu2MSe4 (M = Mo or W), where their nanoparticles were previously synthesized via a metathesis route. Cations-dependent cathodic events and surface activation anodic events were identified by cyclic voltammetry in acetonitrile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document provides information about the activities and events organized by different student chapters of the Electrochemical Society (ECS) at various universities. The ECS Technische Universität München Student Chapter conducted a speaker series and organized social and recruitment events to promote collaboration and inclusivity. The ECS University of Michigan Student Chapter held virtual seminars and in-person sessions on topics such as bipolar membranes and statistical and machine learning techniques in energy storage. The ECS University of the Philippines Student Chapter co-organized the Energy-X 2023 workshop and symposium, which featured local and international speakers discussing electrochemical energy storage technologies. [Extracted from the article]

This paper covers the period following the appointment of John Goodenough to the Chair of Inorganic Chemistry at Oxford University and the development of the electrochemistry group in the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory under his leadership. The paper details the studies he initiated into semiconductor electrochemistry and photoelectrochemistry, electrocatalysis, fuel-cell development and battery research, and the way in which these studies complemented each other. A brief account of some of the later developments in electrochemical research at Oxford is given, showing how these developments grew out of Goodenough's earlier ideas and ambitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The O2-type layered oxide cathode materials have attracted strong research interest recently because of their high specific capacity and their unique lattice structure that may help suppress the detrimental layer-to-spinel phase transition. These materials are metastable and commonly prepared through Li-Na exchange methods from the Na-containing P2-type oxides. Here we investigated the structural, chemical, and morphological changes during the ion-exchange processes in both the LiBr/hexanol solution and the LiNO3/LiCl molten salts. The solution method was more favorable in preparing high-capacity O2-type cathode materials, even though the structural reorganization was slower compared with the molten-salt method. The as-made O2-type cathode materials, contrary to the previous belief, were actually Li-deficient at their pristine states, but could accept more Li ions than that it was extracted during the first charge/discharge cycle. The O2-type cathode materials exhibited high capacities (up to 266 mAh g-1) but the cycle performance requires further improvements. XRD and Raman spectroscopy studies indicated that the structural changes in the bulk were quite reversible. Using a fluorinated electrolyte to address the interface instability improved the cycle performance. Our results provide a more complete understanding of the O2-type cathode materials and useful guidance in the design of low-cost, high-energy cathode materials for LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The syntheses of FeS _2 and Fe _3 S _4 nanomaterials were optimized using a novel facile, surfactant-free, and microwave-assisted, one-pot synthesis method, run under ambient and reasonably mild reaction conditions. Synthetic parameters, such as metal precursor salt identity, reaction time, reaction temperature, metal:sulfur molar ratios, and solvent combinations, were all systematically investigated and optimized. A series of FeS _2 (pyrite) samples was initially fabricated using thioacetamide (TAA) as the sulfur precursor to generate a distinctive, uniform octahedra-based morphology. Switching the sulfur precursor from TAA to L-cysteine resulted in a corresponding transformation in not only chemical composition from FeS _2 to an iron thiospinel structure, Fe _3 S _4 (otherwise known as greigite), but also an associated morphological evolution from octahedra to nanosheet aggregates. The study of these materials has enabled crucial insights into the formation mechanisms of these materials under a relatively non-conventional microwave-assisted setting. Furthermore, in separate experiments, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and graphene were added in with underlying metal sulfide species to create conductive Fe–S/MWNT composites and Fe–S/graphene composites, respectively. The method of addition of either MWNTs or graphene was also explored, wherein an ‘ ex-situ ’ synthetic procedure was found to be the least disruptive means of attachment and immobilization onto iron sulfide co-reagents as a means of preserving the latter’s inherent composition and morphology. The redox acidity for the parent material and associated composites demonstrates the utility of our as-developed synthetic methods for creating motifs relevant for electrochemical applications, such as energy storage.

It is difficult to characterize the variation of corrosion resistance of the narrow areas in friction stir welding (FSW) joints due to the large temperature gradient. In this paper, the welding thermal simulation was performed to simulate the heat affected zone (HAZ) and thermo-mechanical affected zone (TMAZ) of the FSW 7075-T6 aluminum alloy, and the corrosion resistance and microstructure of the simulated samples were studied. Results show that the corrosion potential changes greatly under different thermal simulation temperatures. The pitting corrosion of the HAZ simulated samples presents two pitting potentials, but for the TMAZ simulated samples, two pitting potentials will gradually evolve to one pitting potential with the increase of the maximum temperature. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results show that the corrosion mechanism of the HAZ and TMAZ is completely inconsistent, which is related to the differences in precipitate and grain characteristics.

Multiphase electro-Fenton is considered as a promising technology for the degradation of organic pollutants, and in order to ensure its effectiveness and to make it cheaper and easier, this study develops novel cathodes for in situ H _2 O _2 generation. Graphite felt (RGF) modified by acetylene black (ACET)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) was selected to prepare a superhydrophobic electrode (APGF), and the effects of each factor of ACET:PTFE, oxygen flux, and current density on the production of H _2 O _2 were investigated, and the rate of H _2 O _2 production under the optimized conditions of the experiment was 35.96 mg h ^−1 cm ^−2 which can meet the requirements of Electro-Fenton technology. The physicochemical characterization of RGF and APGF electrodes was analyzed, and the electrocatalytic performance was evaluated by using an electrochemical workstation to test APGF (7:1 ∼ 1:3). Probing the mechanism analysis, the APGF electrode surface is hydrophobic and the C/F functional groups synergize to increase the reactive sites and improve the reactivity and selectivity. Dissolved oxygen in the electrolyte diffused to the active center on the cathode surface escaped from the liquid phase, forming a new phase with bubble adsorption for easier activation, and e-conjugated H ^+ to produce *OOH intermediates, and then e-conjugated H ^+ to obtain H _2 O _2 .

In the research for the decarbonization processes, electrochemistry is among the most studied routes for the conversion of carbon dioxide in added-value products, thanks to the up-scalability and the mild conditions of work of the technology. In this framework, modeling the electrochemical reactor is a powerful tool to predict and optimize important features of the electroreduction. In this study, we propose a comprehensive modeling for the whole electrochemical reactor, which has been validated through the experiments with good agreement. In particular, the performance of the cell is studied as a function of the voltage applied, for different sizes of the reactor. Furthermore, the model has been used to study the chemical conditions at the cathode surface, as well as electrochemical conditions at different applied biases and flow rates of the electrolyte.

Electrochemical, aptamer-based (E-AB) sensors provide a generalizable strategy to quantitatively detect a variety of targets including small molecules and proteins. The key signaling attributes of E-AB sensors (sensitivity, selectivity, specificity, and reagentless and dynamic sensing ability) make them well suited to monitor dynamic processes in complex environments. A key bioanalytical challenge that could benefit from the detection capabilities of E-AB sensors is that of cell signaling, which involves the release of molecular messengers into the extracellular space. Here, we provide a perspective on why E-AB sensors are suited for this measurement, sensor requirements, and pioneering examples of cellular signaling measurements.

Amongst the different graphene fabrication techniques, bipolar electrochemistry (BPE) has been recently reported as a simple, controllable, low cost, eco-friendly, and scalable method. It consists of a wirelessly placed carbon source between two feeding electrodes subjected to direct current (DC) voltage in a deionized water bath. Although the physicochemical characteristics of produced graphene have been evaluated, the exfoliation and deposition mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, a novel modified BPE system with an electrically-connected graphite-platinum couple acting as the bipolar electrode has been designed in order to decouple and investigate the contribution of anodic/cathodic exfoliation and deposition of graphene in the BPE process. Electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results indicate that both anodic and cathodic exfoliation of graphene could take place regardless of the type of polarization; however, the morphology and deposition rate highly depend on the polarization. Furthermore, the graphene fabricated by anodic exfoliation was found to show higher levels of oxidation compared to the graphene produced by cathodic exfoliation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) morphology of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), owing to its peculiar characteristics of non-toxicity and uniquely featured oxidation resistance has attracted extensive attention in electrochemical applications. Here, we report a facile topdown approach for the successful synthesis of hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (h-BNNS) through a low-temperature hydrothermal method. The structural and spectroscopic characterizations have been performed using XRD, FT-IR, Raman and UVVisible Spectroscopy that reveals incorporation of maximum induced strain, multifunctional groups and formation of few layers h-BNNS. The nanosheets morphology is confirmed by series of characterizations (SEM, TEM, and AFM) revealing the large lateral size and relatively low surface roughness of h-BNNS. The electrodes for electrochemical characterizations are prepared using the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique onto ITO substrates with the help of magnesium nitrate [Mg(NO3)2·6H2O] as a mediator. Electrochemical Studies has been performed in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) with Ferro-ferricyanide [Fe(CN)6]3-/4- as a redox couple. Cyclic voltammogram of h-BNNS (Ipa = 1.29 mA and Ipc = -1.23 mA) indicates 69.96% enhancement in redox peaks current and 71.04% rise in electro-active surface area with respect to Bulk h-BN. The electrochemical studies uncover the potential of h-BNNS in the development of electroanalytical devices in applications such as sensing, anticorrosion, energy conversion and energy storage applications owing to their enhanced redox peaks, large electroactive surface area, and reduced charge transfer resistance as well as the admittance of Warburg element. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaI-AlBr3 is a very appealing low melting temperature (<100 °C), salt system for use as an electrochemically-active electrolyte. This system was investigated for its electrochemical and physical properties with focus to energy storage considerations. A simple phase diagram was generated; at >100 °C, lower NaI concentrations had two partially miscible liquid phases, while higher NaI concentrations had solid particles. Considering the fully molten regime, electrical conductivities were evaluated over 5-25 mol% NaI and 110 °C-140 °C. Conductivities of 6.8-38.9 mS cm-1 were observed, increasing with temperature and NaI concentration. Effective diffusion coefficients of the I-/I3- redox species were found to decrease with both increasing NaI concentration and increasing applied potential. Regardless, oxidation current density at 3.6 V vs Na/Na+ was observed to increase with increasing NaI concentration over 5-25 mol%. Finally, the critical interface between the molten salt electrolyte and electrode materials was found to significantly affect reaction kinetics. When carbon was used instead of tungsten, an adsorbed species, most likely I2, blocked surface sites and significantly decreased current densities at high potentials. This study shows the NaI-AlBr3 system offers an attractive, low-temperature molten salt electrolyte that could be useful to many applied systems, though composition and electrode material must be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though in recent years there has been an increase in awareness regarding the gap between cisgender male and female STEM researchers, there exists less understanding of the greater gap between cisgender and transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming individuals. The electrochemistry community is not unique amongst STEM fields in terms of the challenges faced by TBNGNC researchers, but as electrochemists we believe that the field is behind where we hope it could be. Herein, we discuss the challenges faced by TNBGNC individuals, successfully implemented policies to support these individuals, and directions the community can take to continue in this positive direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon is a promising alternative anode material to graphite because of its high gravimetric and volumetric energy densities. However, severe capacity fading is observed in Si electrodes, and it is a result of mechanical changes of Si, such as volume changes, stress or fracture. Furthermore, these mechanical behaviors are strongly coupled with the electrochemistry of the Li-Si alloying reaction in Si-based electrodes, including both thermodynamics and kinetics. Therefore, the electrochemical properties of Si-based electrodes are strongly dependent on the control of the mechanics of Si during lithiation/delithiation. Thus, it is very important to understand the correlation between electrochemistry and mechanics. Here, we review lithiation/delithiation behaviors of various types of Si-based electrodes, applying a fundamental understanding of electrochemistry and mechanics and the correlation between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radical cation initiated cyclization reactions can be triggered by the one electron oxidation of an electron-rich olefin using either electrochemistry or visible light and a photoredox catalyst. In principle, the two methods can be used to give complimentary products with the electrolysis leading to products derived from a net two electron oxidation and the photoelectron transfer method being compatible with the formation of products from a redox neutral process. However, we are finding an increasing number of oxidative cyclization reactions that require the rapid removal of a second electron in order to form high yields of the desired product. In those cases, the electrochemical method can provide a superior approach to accessing the necessary two electron oxidation pathway. With that said, it is a combination of the two methods that provides the mechanistic insight needed to understand when a reaction has this requirement, and we are finding that the use of photoredox catalysis in combination with electrochemical methods is changing our understanding of even the most successful anodic cyclization reactions run to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cascade processes, including electron transfer (E), chemical reaction (C), and backward electron transfer (E), are known as EC-backward-E mechanisms; however, they are rarely observed directly. Herein, we demonstrate that direct observation of EC-backward-E processes in radical cation Diels-Alder reactions is possible using cyclic voltammetry measurements. Formal expressions for the plausible reaction mechanisms provide a reasonable understanding of the processes, which are also supported by the highest occupied molecular orbitals and spin density distributions plotted from density functional theory calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we advance our fundamental understanding of hydrogen electrochemistry as crucial energy technology by challenging the century-long paradigm that Volmer, Heyrovsky, and Tafel reactions are elementary. We identify and resolve the theoretical controversy of this phenomenological model to argue that each reaction must be stepwise not concerted elementarily. The stepwise model provides unprecedented insights as exemplified by resolving current debates on the Tafel analysis and volcano plot based on the controversial concerted model. The stepwise mechanism has not been distinguished from the concerted mechanism experimentally owing to the Laviron–Amatore paradox, which will be overcome by developing transient nanoelectrochemical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fundamental research and practical assembly of rechargeable calcium (Ca) batteries will benefit from an ability to use Ca foil anodes. Given that Ca electrochemistry is considered a surface-film-controlled process, understanding the interface's role is paramount. This study examines electrochemical signatures of several Ca interfaces in a benchmark electrolyte, Ca(BH4)2/tetrahydrofuran (THF). Preparation methodologies of Ca foils are presented, along with Ca plating/stripping through either pre-existing, native calcium hydride (CaH2), or pre-formed calcium fluoride (CaF2) interfaces. In contrast to earlier work examining Ca foil in other electrolytes, Ca foils are accessible for reversible electrochemistry in Ca(BH4)2/THF. However, the first cyclic voltammetry (CV) cycle reflects persistent, history-dependent behavior from prior handling, which manifests as characteristic interface-derived features. This behavior diminishes as Ca is cycled, though formation of a native interface can return the CV to interface-dominated behavior. CaF2 modification enhances such interface-dominance; however, continued cycling suppresses such features, collectively indicating the dynamic nature of certain Ca interfaces. Cell configuration is also found to significantly influence electrochemistry. With appropriate preparation of Ca foils, the signature of interface-dominated behavior is still present during the first cycle in coin cells, but higher current density compared to three-electrode cells along with moderate cycle life are readily achievable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]